Keyboard instruments : virginals, harpsichords and organs in paintings of the 16th and 17th centuries

Paintings featuring harpsichords, virginals and organs offer us a glimpse of gorgeous interiors, amorous scenes and finely-dressed ladies - and the occasional young man too - at the keyboard.

Keyboard instruments can also be the key to decoding an allegory, myth or hidden message in a painting.

This exhibition catalogue showcases a collection of such paintings and also includes painted harpsichord and virginal lids as well as original instruments.

Loans from the National Gallery in London, the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, the Suermondt-Ludwigmuseum in Aachen and many other museums and collectors offer a delight for eyes and ears. Featured artists include Frans Floris, Jacob Jordaens, Maerten de Vos, the Francken family, Jan Miense Molenaer, Jan Steen, Gerard Dou, Gabriel Metsu en Jacob Ochtervelt.