GAVEAU HARPSICHORD, Paris, 1912

The success of the Erard and Pleyel harpsichords inspired the piano company Gaveau to also set up a department of historical instruments in 1911. To design the instruments, they called on Arnold Dolmetsch who had previously gained experience with harpsichord building in England and the United States.  Some elements of the design were closer to historical harpsichords. The keyboards with ebony trim decorated with golden arcades and the ornate hinges are an example of this.  

Technical data:

• Inscription: FAIT.PAR.GAVEAU.A.PARIS.MDCCCCXII.NO 17
• Compass: two 5 octave keyboards (FF-f''')
• Keyboard: naturals in ebony with gilded arcades, sharps in ivory capped
• Pedals: 6 controlling 4 rows of jacks (1x16', 2x8', 1x4' and ad jeu de luth)
• Dimensions: L 212 cm / W 97 cm
• Case: walnut with three cast brass lid strap hinges and two pairs of flap hinges
• Serial number: 17
• Chris Maene Collection number: CM 47 341
• Condition: original condition
• Location: 2 - Museum "Chris Maene Collection" Ruiselede