Your cart
Close Alternative Icon

4410 WI

French Double by Rutkowski & Robinette ~Sold

$15,000.00

4410 WI

Hand-built in 1973 by Rutkowski and Robinette of New York City, renowned makers of French-style harpsichords, one of the most undeniably beautiful harpsichords ever made.  A late-French double, with a sumptuous Louis XVI case of inlaid mahoganies, satinwood, and ebony, replete with considerable gilding. 

The egg-tempera paintings on the soundboard.  The entire instrument is covered in incredible rare woods and ebony inlays in geometric patterns. Rutkowski was an accomplished lepidopterist and hand painted exotic butterflies and other insects from an African trip. Its debut recital was in Madison Wisconsin at the Elvehjem Museum of Art (now the Chazen) in April of 1974, which featured soprano Bettina Bjorksten.  The recital, which launched the series that was to become “Sunday Afternoon Live at the Elvehjem” on public radio, was attended by 1600 people.  As well as a 1974 performance at the Krannert Art Center in Indianapolis of Bach’s Triple Concerto in D minor at a festival directed by Igor Kipnis.

63 notes, FF-g"' 8'8'4' buff.  The instrument has not had technical work in some years, but the quality of the Rutkowski build insures return to a fabulous instrument.  The instrument is located in Madison, Wisconsin.

Listing 7/12/21

8/18/21 ~ THIS INSTRUMENT HAS BEEN SOLD.