Rosewood and Mahogany Spinet
c. 1722-1774

ERIC PEARSON
1964 - rosewood, mahogany, ivory, ebony, brass

H 3 1/8 in. | W 5 3/4 in. | D 2 3/4 in.
H 7.938 cm | W 14.605 cm | D 6.985 cm   

1997.232a
Gift of the Eloise Kruger Charitable Trust

A spinet is closely related to the virginal in the harpsichord family, but it is strung diagonally and is wing-shaped rather than square. Italian in origin, these instruments were particularly popular in England during the 17th and 18th centuries.

The instrument would be made in England and shipped to the purchaser, where the base would be made separately after its arrival in the American colonies.

Eric Pearson was commissioned to craft this Louis XV-style spinet Eloise Kruger identified in one of her many furniture directory reference books.

Mr. Pearson cautioned Eloise Kruger not to touch the spinet's strings. They are .003 inches in diameter and are extremely fragile.

The rosewood spinet features mahogany banding, and the instrument and legs are separate pieces, maintaining the historical accuracy of the miniature.