Clavichord

Netherlands, c. 1650, ebony, spruce, ivory, brass, iron; lid: oil on panel

In the clavichord each string is struck by a small piece of metal called a tangent. Its touch-sensitive action allows great expressiveness in playing, although its small size and softness of sound make it unsuitable for large-scale public performance. Nevertheless, the clavichord was an ideal home practice instrument for keyboard players, especially organists, and a perfect tool for composers.

  • Artwork typeclavichord, keyboard instrument, musical instrument, stringed instrument
  • Object numberBK-NM-9487
  • Dimensionsheight 18.0 cm x width 72.5 cm, height 10.0 cm x width 83.0 cm x depth 28.0 cm
  • Physical characteristicsebbenhout, sparrenhout, ivoor, koper, ijzer; deksel: olieverf op paneel