Concertina 1831 - 1837

Editor: Here we have Charles Wheatstone’s "Concertina," made between 1831 and 1837. It’s constructed from wood, metal, and what looks like mother-of-pearl. It appears almost jewel-like with its intricate design and gleaming surfaces. How do you see this instrument functioning within its historical context? Curator: Focusing on the object itself, observe how the materiality speaks to its social purpose. Wood and metal, while functional, are also carefully crafted and assembled, pointing to a level of artisanal labor. Mother-of-pearl elevates it beyond mere utility, suggesting a market aimed at a specific class, right? Editor: So, its value is embedded in the materials and labor that went into it? It does seem more decorative than, say, a simple folk instrument. Curator: Precisely! The production and consumption of such objects reflect social structures. Who had the means to commission or purchase such an item? Think about the societal conditions enabling Wheatstone’s workshop to source these materials, to employ skilled labor, and the network involved in distribution. How does the design play a role in that narrative? Editor: The compactness probably made it more appealing to a burgeoning middle class. Something portable, decorative, yet also productive as a tool for leisure. It's like a luxury good meets DIY entertainment. Curator: And it’s in understanding that tension between luxury and function that we start to unpack the Concertina’s story. Where do you think these components were sourced from and what did its presence mean to owners? Editor: This conversation really makes you think about the journey of the materials and the hands involved. I had never really considered that when looking at a musical instrument. Curator: Exactly, and that’s a far richer story than simply aesthetic appreciation!