French Harpsichords
Models
A double manual Harpsichord based on the Francois Blanchet built in Paris in 1765, now in the collection of Robert Rosenbaum in New York.
A double manual Harpsichord based on the Pascal Taskin built in Paris in 1769, now in the Russell Collection in Edinburgh.
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The keyboard compass of both Harpsichords is five octaves, FF-g3, 63 notes (plus transposer). There are three registers: 1 x 8’, 1 x 4' on the lower manual; 1 x 8' on the upper manual with a shove coupler. A buff rail is provided for the principal 8' stop. Polished brass hand stops are provided to engage the buff rail and the registers. As options, the 1769 Taskin may be equipped with a fourth register in peau de buffle. The instruments have transposer blocks beside the keyboards so that both low pitch (a'=415 Hz) and modern pitch (a'=440 Hz) are available.
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Standard Materials & Finish:
The cases are poplar with spruce framing and white oak wrestplanks. The soundboards are European spruce. The natural keys are covered with ebony and the accidentals are ebony topped with cow bone. The jacks are European beech with holly tongues. Leather covers the upper and lower guides.The cases are painted with one or two colours and decorated with wide gold bands and moldings. Trestle stands with square tapered legs are provided.
Optional Accoutrements:
- Table stand with turned, fluted legs
- Table stand with cabriole legs
- Soundboard painting
- Fourth register in Peau de Buffle
- Lid painting in French style
- Case chinoiseries -
Length: 91.5" (233 cm)
Width: 38.5" (97.8 cm)
Height: 38.5" (97.5 cm)
Depth: 12.0" (30.5 cm)
French Harpsichord
Request Pricing
For pricing of new instruments, I do not publish prices online. However, I am happy to provide you with a quote on request.
Prices will vary based on model, options/finish, shipping costs, exchange rate, and other factors.