An Unsigned South-German Harpsichord in the Historisches Museum Basel

Examines evidence for the origin and date of harpsichord number 1877.70, housed in the Historisches Museum Basel, to show that there were no features that could be considered as typically French, but several characteristics that strengthen the suggestion of its origin in the southern German-speaking areas. Describes the instrument in detail, focusing on its compass and disposition, casework, soundboard, keyframe, keyboard, registers, jacks, nameboards, register levers, jack rail, lid, and front board. Discusses its original layout and later changes. Concludes that comparing the Basel instrument with dated harpsichords of the South-German area hints at a date at the very end of the 17th or in the first half of the 18th century. Includes diagrams and photographs.