Traquair Harpsicord
The Ruckers Harpsichord at Traquair was made in 1651 and described on the nameboard as by Andries Ruckers and is one of the few instruments to have certainly been attributed to this grandson of Hans Ruckers who founded a family tradition of harpsichord building in Antwerp that lasted around 100 years (1580 – 1680).
It is remarkable, firstly, because of the original Ruckers decoration of painted marbling, with printed papers to ornament the interior, is exceptionally well preserved and the also the present action work is a rare or possibly unique survival of Scottish instrument making of about 1700.
It came to Traquair with Christian Anstruther, wife of the 6th Earl of Traquair who moved to Traquair from St Andrews in Fife. She was evidently a very musical lady as she brought with her not only this harpsichord but also a spinnet, although the latter does not survive.
The harpsichord was restored to playing order in the mid 1960’s , by Mr Thomas and Mr Rhodes , two wonderful specialists in early keyboard instruments who became great friends of Traquair. More recently, it has been maintained by John Raymond, retired curator of St Cecilia’s Hall, Edinburgh.
Recitals usually take place annually and Traquair also holds music in our archives that undoubtedly came with the instrument. The collection includes music by Purcell, Handel, Francesco Barsanti and William Babell, all from the early 1700’s and perfectly suited to be played on this harpsichord.
A CD was recorded by Gerald Gifford here and is available from our shop.