An important Pleyel double manual revival harpsichord, 1905, France, serial number #22F823, with a marquetry case and lyre post with six pedals, provenance: formerly the property of Polish harpsichord virtuoso Wanda Landowska 1905-1907 and played by her during her concert tour of England at that time; property of Dr John Flynn, philanthropist and Tattersalls heir; exhibited in the Pianoforte Past at William Bradshaw's Queen Street Galleries, Sydney, 1970s; private Melbourne collection, height 36.61 in., width 38.19 in., depth 93.70 in.
- Lyre Motif - The lyre motif is an ancient decorative design that is believed to have originated in ancient Greece, where the lyre was a popular musical instrument. The lyre itself was often decorated with ornate carvings and designs, including the iconic lyre motif.
In ancient Greek mythology, the lyre was associated with the god Apollo, who was the patron of music and the arts. The lyre was said to have been invented by the god Hermes, who presented it to Apollo as a gift. As a result, the lyre became a symbol of creativity, inspiration, and artistic expression.
The lyre motif typically features a curved or S-shaped body, with strings extending upwards from the base. The motif was often used in architectural decoration, as well as on pottery, jewellery, and other decorative objects.
- Important - Important is a word used in the antique trade to indicate an object should be ranked above other similar objects, and is therefore more valuable.
The object could be considered important because it is by a famous designer or maker, has been shown at a major exhibition, is of exquisite workmanship, is rare or is a "one-off", was made for an important patron, and so on.
Even further up the pecking order are objects that are described in catalogue descriptions as highly important or extraordinarily important.
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