John Morley 4 Octave Virginal Mahogany c1974

John Morley 4 octave virginal in mahogany on turned and fluted legs, nylon jacks and delrin plectra with buff. (P)
Compass C-D
No.2611 c1974 secondhand
Made in London, England

Dimensions : 143.00cm wide   84.50cm high   59.00cm deep

Virginals also known as Italian Spinets for the Baroque and Frescobaldi

Polygonal and rectangular in shape these instruments, known in England as Virginals because Queen Elizabeth I played one, date back to the 16th century and were diagonally strung with both bridges fixed to the soundboard with the plucking point going through the centre of the speaking length of the treble strings. This gives the instrument a very reedy sound. They are usually 4 octaves.

Hear me : John Morley virginals M2611