Virginal, Johannes Ruckers (attributed to), 1640
poplar, spruce, oak, bone, paper, metal, leather, l 150.0cm × w 48.0cm × h 22.0cm More details
The virginal, like the harpsichord, is a keyboard instrument the strings of which are plucked by plectra. Used mostly in domestic contexts, virginals were smaller and usually less costly than harpsichords. These instruments were often played by young girls, giving rise to the name ‘virginal’. The decoration of this instrument is not painted, but consists of printed paper.
