Images(4)

Aeolian harp

Date1775-1790

Artist/Maker John & Gerard Vogler

OriginEngland, London

MediumSpruce, maple, beech, holly

DimensionsL: 31 3/4"; W: 5 1/2"; D: 3 3/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1954-385

DescriptionRectangular satinwood box with striped inlay (holly and ebony) on edges. Spruce soundboard with 2 decorative "rose" holes with interlacing fretwork pattern; 6 tuning pins alternating with 6 hitch pins of ivory at each end of sounding board holding 12 catgut strings.
Label TextThe Aeolian harp is the stringed instrument equivalent of a wind chime. It was placed in a window sill with the window open just enough to focus the breeze across the strings. When the strings vibrated sympathetically, a sound was produced. Thomas Jefferson specified an Aeolian harp in connection with a garden temple (Papers of Thomas Jefferson ...1767-1826, volume 1, Bear & Stanton, p.28 and 248). This example is clearly the work of a skilled musical instrument maker. Aeolian Harps were among the products listed in a c. 1775 catalog of musical merchandise sold by Longman, Lukey and Broderip of London.
Inscribedsee marks
MarkingsAt end of soundboard: "I & G. Vogler Fecit Londini"
ProvenanceEx coll: Bowes-Lyon family in England.

Exhibition(s)