Description:

Labeled Francis Hopkinson Smith (1792-1872)/Baltimore, ca. 1830,
37-1/2"h x 36"w x 23"d

According to the Chrysler Museum of Art, " Francis Hopkins Smith (1792-1872), of Eastville, Northampton County, Virginia, patented his version of musical glass, which he called the "Glass Harmonicon" on April 7, 1785. Smith's glasses were blown to pitch. They are played by rubbing their rims with moistened fingers.

Most, if not all, of Smith's Glass Harmonicons were manufactured in Baltimore where he later lived. Smith advertised that the instrument was easy to play, claiming "a few week's practice will make a pleasing performer."

Approximately thirty of Smith's Glass Harmonicons have survived in spite of their fragility. "

Provenance: The Stanley Weiss Collection sw01040
Literature: www.stanleyweiss.com

  • Condition: Condition reports are not provided in catalog descriptions. The absence of a condition report does not guarantee that the lot is in good condition or free from damage and wear. We encourage you to requisite a condition report and/or additional photos prior to bidding on any lot.  We also recommended asking for a shipping quote before bidding as well. CASH, CASHIER CHECK, MONEY ORDER, AND WIRE TRANSFER ARE ONLY METHODS OF PAYMENT ACCEPTED FOR JEWELRY, COINS, AND WATCHES.

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September 13, 2023 10:00 AM EDT
Bloomfield , NJ, US

Nye & Company

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