The cross-examination of the decoration of musical instruments and their representation in the visual arts underpins an important research program concerning the appearance of musical instruments and, consequently, their integration into a decorative and furnishing ensemble
Research conducted in collaboration with the Musical Instruments Museum of Brussels focuses on Flemish harpsichords from the 18th century (stylistic study, scientific imaging, pigment characterization, stratigraphic analysis of paintings, etc.).
In a reflective interplay, the representation of instruments in the visual arts provides a contemporary view of the instrument and complements the study of texts and the instruments themselves. The study aims to establish a list of works from Northern schools, allowing for an exploration of both the importance attributed to depicted instruments and the characterization of harpsichords in their technical and decorative aspects.
The projects conducted in this area are supported and carried out in partnership with several institutions and laboratories: