InstrumentHarpsichord |
Instrument FamilyKeyboard |
MakerAndreas Ruckers the elder |
Place MadeCentral Europe; Belgium; Europe; Antwerp |
Date Made1608 |
DescriptionTechnical description: Double-manual Flemish harpsichord. Compass 51 notes G₁/B₁ - C₆,D₆ [GG/BB - c''',d''']. Three sets of strings (now removed) 2 × 8-ft, 1 × 4-ft, 4 registers.
Signature/Marks: Inscribed on the name batten "ANDREAS RUCKERS ME FECIT ANTVERPIAE 1608"; on soundboard "1608".
Decoration: Outside of the case is painted green with gold scrolled leaf borders. The oil painting on the wing lid, an amorous scene, is signed "PCIV" on the upper edge of the closed book depicted. Possibly by Pieter Codde (1619-1666). The painting on the lid flap is a classical scene of amours.
Repair History: Originally a transposing instrument with two keyboards at different pitches. Altered c1680 to bring the keyboards into line, extra 8-ft register added. Converted to a pianoforte in the 18th century, upper keyboard removed. Returned to a harpsichord in 1928 by Alec Hodsdon. Restored in 1953 by Andre Douglas with new keyboards and jacks, the original lower keyboard being preserved separately. The name batten is not original. |
NotesSheila Barnes, 2007. |
Measurements2227. |
ProvenanceBought by Raymond Russell in 1952 from Miss D.L. Smith, Wickhambrook, Suffolk; owned by Sir Arthur Wheeler, Brownsea Island in 1927; ex- Charles van Raalte collection.; Gift of Mrs Gilbert Russell, 1964. |
CollectionMIMEd; Raymond Russell Collection |
Accession Number4303 |