Italian Virginal

Italian Virginal

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Description (Brief)
This harpsichord was made by an unknown maker in Italy, in the 17th century. It is a polygonal virginal with a compass of C/E - c3, and a disposition of 1 x 8’. This instrument has a cypress soundboard, and dark-stained boxwood naturals and dark wood accidentals. The outer edge, jack rail, nameboard, and endblocks are decorated with ivory studs. The soundboard contains a 3-1/8” diameter parchment rose.
The separable outer case is painted dark brown. There are traces of painted decorations on the interior of the lid that have been painted over. The simple trestle stand is not original.
Location
Currently not on view
Object Name
harpsichord
date made
17th century
place made
Italy
Physical Description
wood (overall material)
paint (overall material)
metal (overall material)
Measurements
instrument: 6 1/2 in x 51 1/2 in x 13 3/4 in; 16.51 cm x 130.81 cm x 34.925 cm
overall: 8 1/4 in x 56 in x 20 in; 20.955 cm x 142.24 cm x 50.8 cm
ID Number
MI.303545
accession number
62559
catalog number
303545
Credit Line
Gift of Hugo Worch
See more items in
Culture and the Arts: Musical Instruments
Music & Musical Instruments
Harpsichords
Data Source
National Museum of American History
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