The Erard Grecian Harp in Regency England

In the early 19th century, the harp underwent a sophisticated transformation, becoming as popular as the piano. This was due to the efforts of Sébastien Erard, a tireless inventor and prolific manufacturer of harps and pianos. The Erard firm introduced the Grecian model in 1811, the first commercially built double-action harp, which established the harp as a symbol of luxury, wealth, and status. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the development, production, and consumption of the Erard Grecian harp in Regency England, examining the instrument's role in education, art, fashion, and literature.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 318 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2023
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

The harp underwent a remarkable transformation during the early 19th century, emerging as a sophisticated instrument on par with the piano in popularity. This transformation was primarily driven by an extensive technical, musical, and visual upgrading process, which gradually led to the transition from the single-action pedal harp to the double-action pedal harp. A pivotal figure in this transformation was Sébastien Erard (1752-1831), a tireless inventor and prolific manufacturer of harps and pianos with branches in Paris and London. With the introduction of the so-called "Grecian" model in 1811, the Erard firm achieved a significant milestone by creating the first commercially built double-action harp. This innovative model not only revolutionized the harp as a novel and state-of-the-art instrument but also positioned it as a powerful symbol of luxury, wealth, and status.

To provide a comprehensive understanding of the development, production, and consumption of the Erard Grecian harp in Regency England, this book draws upon a wide range of primary sources. These include surviving instruments, archival documents, and iconographical evidence, which shed light on the intricate details of the harp's evolution. By comparing the innovative approaches employed by the Erard firm with its competitors and other leading entrepreneurs in related trades, such as mechanical devices, precision tools, ornamental pottery, clocks, and watches, the book offers a nuanced analysis of the industry during this period.

Furthermore, the book delves into the omnipresent role of the harp in the education, art, fashion, and literature of the Regency era. It explores how groundbreaking advances, such as the Industrial Revolution, Neoclassicism, and the Napoleonic Wars, shaped the image and perception of the harp. The book discusses how the harp became a symbol of elegance, refinement, and cultural significance, influencing the artistic and cultural landscape of the time.

In conclusion, this book provides a detailed and comprehensive exploration of the harp's transformation from a simple folk instrument to a sophisticated and coveted musical instrument during the early 19th century. It sheds light on the contributions of Sébastien Erard and other key figures in the industry, as well as the broader social and cultural context in which the harp flourished. By examining the development, production, and consumption of the Erard Grecian harp, the book offers valuable insights into the history, music, and culture of Regency England.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783277728