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Vintage 1910 American Osborne Pianoette Thumper

Currency:USD Category:Memorabilia / Music Memorabilia Start Price:25.00 USD Estimated At:50.00 - 70.00 USD
Vintage 1910 American Osborne Pianoette Thumper
DISCLAIMER: PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL ITEMS ARE SOLD IN “AS IS” CONDITION, WITHOUT ANY WARRANTIES, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. THE ITEMS OFFERED WERE ALL COLLECTED FOR THEIR DISPLAYABILITY, AND MAY OR MAY NOT BE IN WORKING CONDITION. Please call us at (818) 937-9399 or email us at blacksparrowauctions@gmail.com for condition reports or any general inquiry.
One of the most unusual accompaniment gizmos for early 1900s zithers is this "chord-thumping" device. The player lifts the tab of choice, then releases it, causing the apparatus (which is equipped with a hard felt pad) to spring downward, striking the 4 strings of the selected chord all at once. As one might imagine, the functionality of the chords would be quite limited if the chord thumper alone was used for accompaniment. However, in the default at-rest position, the thumpers are up off the strings, leaving the accompaniment section available to be played in the usual manner with the fingers. So, the thumper gizmo, used occasionally for effect, actually expands accompaniment functionality by a bit. Measures 13.25" x 18.75". Exhibits minor surface scratches. In very good condition. From the collection of Ken McMeans. 20% of the proceeds will benefit the Jeremy Wilson Foundation.