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D2014-CMD. Two-manual harpsichord 1953-1196,A
Two-manual Harpsichord
D2014-CMD. Two-manual harpsichord 1953-1196,A

Two-manual Harpsichord

Date1907-1908
Maker Chickering & Sons
Maker Arnold Dolmetsch (1858 - 1940)
OriginAmerica, Massachusetts, Boston
MediumMahogany: case veneer; Spruce: soundboard; Maple: pin block veneer; Maple or Beech: bridges, nuts, registers; Fruitwood: jacks; Boxwood(?): tongues; Ebony: natural key tops; Ivory: sharp key tops; Leather: plectra; Brass: lid hardware, pedals; Iron: tuning pins
DimensionsNet dimensions exclude lid, stand and projecting moldings. All dimensions in mm except where noted. Length: 2,399 mm (net 2,384 mm); Width: 970 mm (net 965 mm); Height: 887 mm (net 268 mm)
Credit LineGift of Mrs. E. Parmalee Prentice
Object number1953-1196,A
DescriptionCASE DECORATION: The case, with its serpentine bent side, is veneered with figured mahogany, known to various experts and early owners as "plum pudding mahogany," "Madagascar mahogany," and "Madagascar 'rose wood.'" Light wood stringing is also featured. A molding is applied to the bottom of the case. An alcohol-soluble clear coating covers the surface.
KEYWELL: The keywell has the same veneer and stringing as the case.
LID: The lid has three English-style "tulip" strap hinges in graduated lengths, as well as three flap hinges.
INTERNAL NOTES: The original folding music desk and the presumed original tuning T-hammer survive.
COMPASS: FF–f3
OCTAVES: 5 oct.
STOPS: Six pedals (from left to right; four registers numbered from near side to far side):
1. upper manual 8-foot as altered by Challis (originally, down position turned register 1 off and register 3 on)
2. 8-foot lower manual (moves register 4 to left)
3. 4-foot lower manual
4. buff stop, lower manual 8-foot
5. buff stop, upper manual 8-foot
6. manual coupler
Inscribed"CHICKERING & SONS BOSTON USA MCMVIII / No 53" in paint on nameboard
Markings"Made by Chickering & Sons / under the direction of / Arnold Dolmetsch / Boston, USA / MCMVII / No 53" in paint on pin block
ProvenanceSold in 1916 by Chickering & Sons to Archer Gibson of New York; bequeathed to John D. Rockefeller's sister Alta Rockefeller Prentice, who gave the harpsichord to CWF in 1953
Exhibition(s)