Harpsichord by Shudi
Maker:
Shudi
Number of manuals:
Two
Year:
1740
Museum:
Kew Palace
Date Range
1700-1750
Current Location:
United Kingdom
Material:
Painter:
Pedals:
Catalogue Number:
Origin:
England
Type:
Harpsichord
The Royal Harpsichord of George III at Kew Palace is a rare two-manual instrument built in 1740 by the Swiss-born maker Burkat Shudi. Originally constructed as a claviorgan, it reflects the strong musical interests of King George III and Queen Charlotte, who regularly gave private performances together. Queen Charlotte, an accomplished keyboard player, had brought two harpsichords from Germany on her marriage to the King. Believed to be one of Shudi's earliest surviving instruments, the harpsichord was once in very poor condition but has been partially restored, with its eight-foot stops now playable
Photo Credit: Elisabeth Howson Wikicommons