The harpsichord was an important keyboard instrument in Europe from the 15th through to the 18th centuries, and had a revival as recent as the 20th century.
Maker: Jacob Kirkman
Date Made: 1755
Made In: London, England
Accession No: 4330
This instrument is one of the instruments collected by Raymond Russell whose mother donated his collection to the University of Edinburgh to form the world-famous Russell Collection of Early Keyboard Instruments. This instrument is reputed to have been Russell's favourite harpsichord. In contrast to many rather plain English instruments, it is extremely richly decorated.
Maker: Luigi Baillon
Date Made: 1755
Made In: Unknown
Accession No: 4478
At a time when most French harpsichords were produced in Paris, Luigi Baillon made this instrument in a small village known for its Cistercian monastery. Baillon, who may have moved to Citeaux because of religious reasons, originally produced a simply decorated instrument. The sumptuous gold stand and painted decoration were added in the 19th century.
