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Claviorganum

1712
Not on view
German harpsichords are extremely rare. This example by Herman Willenbrock is the only known instrument from this North German maker and includes both a harpsichord and organ (only the harpsichord is shown). The organ is played from the lower keyboard manual. This instrument was possibly made for George I and may have been known by Handel who visited the court in 1712.

Technical description: Two-manual harpsichord on replacement stand supporting one rank of wood pipes immediately below harpsichord and bellows across stretchers below; C (no. C#)-c3, 2x8' & 1x4' harpsichord registers and coupler; pinblock, nuts, pins, guides, jacks, ribs, bottom new in 1939 (former piano action removed); case exterior decorated with perhaps Dutch chinoiserie, lid interior shows oil landscape with Schulenberg Castle.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Claviorganum
  • Maker: Herman Willenbrock
  • Date: 1712
  • Geography: Hannover, Germany
  • Culture: German
  • Medium: wood, various materials
  • Dimensions: W. 31 9/16 x D. 9 1/4 x L. 89 3/8 in. (80.2 x 23.5 x 227 cm)
    c-b2 19 1/2 (49.5 cm)
    stand: L. 92 in. W. 31 ½ in. H. 32 in.
  • Classifications: Chordophone and Aerophone-struck piano/ free reed keyboard, Paintings
  • Credit Line: The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889
  • Object Number: 89.4.2741
  • Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments

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