Transverse Spinet by William Gibb

Transverse Spinet by William Gibb

C. 1888

Chromolithograph

The wing-like, asymmetrical form of a late 17th-century English bentside spinet, crafted by the renowned London maker Stephen Keene, defines the composition of this 1888 color lithograph. Illustrated by artist William Gibb as Plate No. XXII, the print meticulously balances the rich, dark wood grain of the polished walnut case against an ornate, gilded nameboard panel flanking the single manual keyboard. Propped open by a slender prop-stick, the wing-shaped lid reveals a warm wood-toned interior, while the entire instrument is elevated by a distinctively turned six-legged wooden trestle stand adorned with carved decorative valances beneath the keybed.

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 11 ¾” x 16”W

Condition: In very good condition