Harpsichord 1650

This harpsichord was made by Jan Couchet the Elder, in Antwerp, most likely in the mid-17th century. The case is constructed from spruce and pine, with a soundboard of cypress, and is decorated with oil paint and gilt. Look closely, and you’ll see that this isn't just a musical instrument; it’s also a feat of decorative craftsmanship. The carved legs, painted soundboard, and delicate keyboard are evidence of skilled labor. The choice of materials—fine woods, precious metals, and vibrant pigments—would have made it a luxury item. The harpsichord embodies the convergence of art, craft, and music, but also issues of labor and consumption. The making of this instrument involved a range of specialized skills. The woodworking, metalworking, and painting required dedicated workshops. By considering the labor and materials involved, we gain insight into the economic and social context of its creation. This helps us see beyond the beautiful surface to understand the complex networks that brought it into being.