A bowed stringed instrument is a type of musical instrument that is played by drawing a bow across one or more strings. The two most common bowed stringed instruments are the VIOL and the CELLO. The VIOL, also known as the viola da gamba, is a bowed stringed instrument that has been around since the 15th century. It is usually tuned in fourths and has six strings. The CELLO, on the other hand, is a larger version of the VIOL and was developed in the 16th century. It is usually tuned in fifths and has four strings. Both instruments are used in classical music, as well as in jazz, folk, and other genres.