Collection << Back exhibit information online Name Paul de Wit History The collection's history has its start in the last century. Its beginning is closely tied to the activities of Paul de Wit (1852-1925), a Dutchman based in Leipzig. De Wit's well-to-do parents in Maastricht had rgoomed their son for a career in the wine trade. However, his love of music coupled with a passion for historical instruments led de Wit to pursue a different career. Shortly after 1880 an unusual gift was to prove significant forde Wit and his subsequent career. In return for a favor, a friend presented him an early harpsichord by Jacob Kirckman. This gift stimulated the 30-year old music-lover to start collecting other musical instruments, which at that time were still available at affordable prices. Throughout his life Paul de Wit demonstrated a good business sense. In 1888 and again 1890 he sold parts of his collection to the Royal Conservatory in Berlin. Despite the sales, he continued to add to the collection with discriminating purchases. His largest and most comprehensive collection went on show in 1892 in Vienna. De Wit displayed an "Allegory of the Art of Music," a colossal tableau composed of innumerable musical instruments of every kind. Paul de Wit offered his entire collection for sale to the city of Leipzig. After negotiations proved fruitless, he sold it in 1905 to Wilhelm Heyer (1849-1913), a wealthy paper manufacturer in Cologne.   Exhibit Hurdy-gurdy, 1753 Exilent recorder, 16th century Alto recorder, inv.-no. 1126 Racket, 16th century Alto shawm, 17th century Oboe, 1792 Fortepiano, ca. 1780 Pyramid piano, ca. 1825                          Harpsichord, 17th century Virginal, 18th century Liuto attiorbato, ca. 1730 Theorbo, 1720 Positive Organ, 1614 Bass trombone, 1631 Tenor trombone