Square Piano

Alpheus Babcock American

Not on view

Alpheus Babcock was a Boston based piano maker who is mast famous for his invention, and patent, of an iron frame. HIs patent for that innovation, which would be come standard on all types of pianos, was in December of 1825. This instrument predates his introduction of the iron frame.


Technical description: Mahogany and mahogany veneer case resting on four cylindrical legs with bronze-gilt mountings at top and bottom, stretchers of square section on three sides, compass FF-f4 (73 keys), ivory naturals with molded fronts, ebony accidentals, lyre-shaped pedal lyre, 2 pedals, left lifting dampers, right lifting a mute from the portion of the strings to the right of the bridge; English double action with intermediate lever and escapement; crank over key lifts wire that passes through eyelet, supporting cloth-lined damper; double string throughout, bottom 14 notes wound. (Description revised by L. Libin 4 Aug 76).

Square Piano, Alpheus Babcock (Maine 1785–1842 Boston), Wood, various materials, American

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