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Virginal
This is an Italian polygonal virginal, or a harpsichord in which the strings run longitudinally and parallel to the keyboard, with an outer case of pine wood with post production metal hinges. The inner case and soundboard are made of cypress wood, and the latter has a leather rose, which was added some time after initial production. It has a four octave projecting keyboard (50 keys: E1-F2), with boxwood naturals (some later replacements) and ebonised accidentals. The instrument has an oak trestle stand, which is a later addition.
- Date:
second half of 16th century - Maker:
- Collection:
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum - Inventory number:
Loading... - Place of production:
Italy - Hornbostel-Sachs classification:314.122 True board zithers with resonator box (box zither)
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- Decorative elements:The outercase lid is crudely painted on the inside, with scrolling foliage and a portrait of Saint Cecilia seated at a virginal within an oval foliate border.
- Inscriptions:Signed on the reverse of the nameboard: Dick Res[illegible]
- Hornbostel-Sachs category:314.122 True board zithers with resonator box (box zither)
- Repository:Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
- Measurements:Length: 1500mm; Depth: 550mm; Height: 230mm