Double-manual harpsichord

Jacob Kirkman

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Instrument

Harpsichord/Harpsichords/Keyboard/Musical Instrument ; Harpsichord

Instrument Family

Keyboard

Maker

Jacob Kirkman

Place Made

London ; Europe ; England ; United Kingdom

Date Made

1755

Description

Kirkman; Technical description: Double-manual English harpsichord. Compass 60 notes F₁,G₁ - F₆ [FF,GG - f''']. Four registers 2 × 8-ft (dogleg), 1 × 4-ft, lute. Gilt rose bearing initials. String lengths (plucking point of dogleg): F₆ 132 (48), C₆ 172 (55), F₅ 257 (67), C₅ 343 (75), F₄ 521 (89), C₄ 690 (102), F₃ 971 (117), C₃ 1193 (131), F₂ 1465 (152), C₂ 1635 (168), F₁ 1791 (186). Signature/Marks: Written in pen and ink on the name batten "Jacobus Kirckman Fecit Londini 1755". Decoration: The keywell, soundwell and jackrail have an elaborate scrollwork marquetry decoration in walnut on a ground of sycamore. The exterior of the case including the spine and both sides of the lid has figured walnut panels surrounded by a cross-banded border. The panels and border are separated by contrasting bands 14.5mm wide of kingwood edged with boxwood lines and incorporating squares in an exotic hardwood every few inches. There are magnificent brass strap-hinges on the lid and lid flap. Carved stand with claw-and-ball feet. Repair History: Restoration including restringing by John Barnes, 1976.

Notes

Sheila Barnes, 2007.

Measurements

2400.

Provenance

Mrs Gilbert Russell from 1964 to 1970; Raymond Russell; O.J.S. Moore, Padworth House. ; Purchased at auction with assistance from the Friends of St Cecilia's Hall and the National Fund for Acquisitions, 1970.