#2343 HCH

Dolmetsch Chickering harpsichord, 1908, serial # 52.

A magnificent, historically significant harpsichord by Arnold Dolmetsch. This instrument was built by Dolmetsch at the Chickering factory in Boston, Massachusetts in 1908, one of thirteen harpsichords made at Chickerings, and one of two in plum pudding mahogany. This is serial # 52, and the other, serial #53, is in the collection of Colonial Williamsburg.

Original (?) specifications:
2 X 8' (lower manual 8' in soft leather, upper manual 8' in crow quill), additional set of 8' jacks in harder leather plucking the upper 8' but working from the lower keyboard; 1 X 4'; buff I, buff II; range FF - f3; six pedals.

The instrument was "restored" by John Challis in 1942 when the lower 8' was converted to a 16'. This has been removed with no ill effects.

The instrument needs the following technical work to be a playing instrument:
Restringing the missing 8' (removed by Challis).
Replacing missing plectra (now in delrin).
Voicing and regulation.
Cleaning and restoration of the pedals/registers including the coupler.
Adjustment of the buff stop.

Buyer would have the option of a full restoration to original specification which will require a proposal and separate quotation.

$16,300 as is.