Double Spinet by William Gibb

Double Spinet by William Gibb

C. 1921

Photomechanical offset lithography

Dating to 1921, this color lithograph showcases Plate No. XX from the historic Edinburgh printing by Adam and Charles Black. The print presents a rare double-keyboard musical instrument built by Flemish craftsman Hans Ruckers the Elder, rendered with precision by illustrator William Gibb. The artwork captures the instrument's open case, revealing an expansive oil painting of the musical contest between Apollo and Marsyas on the interior lid. Below the painting, the composition balances a fixed primary keyboard with a smaller, nested octave spinet resting atop an architectural arcade-style wooden base.

This plate was originally produced for the landmark publication Musical Instruments, Historic, Rare and Unique, written by musicologist Alfred James Hipkins. During the late nineteenth century, a growing European fascination with ethnomusicology and antiquarianism fueled a desire to visually preserve rare cultural artifacts before they disappeared. Gibb became highly celebrated for his exceptional ability to translate the complex textures of historic objects into print media.

Dimensions: H 12”x 9”W

Condition: In very good condition