Detail of the 1795 Broadwood Square Piano
Further information:
The Harpsichords & Clavichords at Finchcocks
The harpsichord by Jacob Kirckman of 1756 is a fine example of English harpsichord making at its best. The case and lid are of oak and panelled with burr walnut, cross-banded in plain walnut, and with stringing assembled so that the sapwood appears as a pale square recurring every few inches or so.
Of the other harpsichords, mention should be made of the very striking Portuguese instrument by Antunes, with its beautiful lid painting and bold incisive tone quality, and the Italian virginal by Guarracino of 1668 (the oldest instrument in the collection), the exterior of its outer case finely decorated in imitation marble inlay work. In addition, there are two English spinets (by Cawton Aston and Mahoon) and several other harpsichords.
One of the two clavichords at Finchcocks is the very large Scandanavian instrument by Lindholm and Söderströhm. Its large dimensions give it a louder sound than that normally associated with clavichords, yet with still the same distinctive tone colour.