Square Piano

George Astor German, active London

1797–1813

Not on view

George Astor was a flute maker born in Germany who emigrated to London with his brother John Jacob Astor. His brother would later move to the United States where he was a fur dealer and also sold musical instruments by his brother. As the square piano became more popular in the late eighteenth century, Astor began building instruments like this example in the style of other London instrument makers.

Technical description: Square piano on separate stand; with non-original stool. Mahogany veneered case with inlayed decoration and floral painted, sycamore-veneered nameboard. Decorative cast brass bolt covers. Compass FF-f3. Double strung throughout. Two hand stops controlling dampers and moderator. Pedal (missing) operated swell. Enameled nameplate on nameboard: New Patent/ G. ASTOR/ No. 79 CORNHILL/ London. Serial number 1067.

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Provenance

Title: Square Piano
Maker: George Astor (Baden 1752–1813 London)
Date: 1797–1813
Geography: London, England, United Kingdom
Culture: British
Medium: Mahogany veneer, iron, brass, ivory, ebony, various materials
Dimensions: Overall: H: 30 1/2 in. x W: 62 in. x D: 22 1/4 in. (77.5 x 157.5 x 56.5 cm); Leg H.: 21 in. (8-1/4 in.)
Classification: Chordophone-Zither-struck-piano
Credit Line: Gift of Dr. John H. and Elizabeth C. Bland, 2003
Object Number: 2003.601
Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments

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Manufacturer Érard
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1792 or 1795

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