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Érard Frères & Compagnie 1796

Description

Date:

1796

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Origin:

Paris

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Serialnumber:

3346

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Érard pianos were among the finest instruments made in the late 18^th and 19^th centuries. The company’s reputation extended across Europe and the sound of these instruments is one of the finest ever. The company’s success was unique. Clients included composers, musicians, royalty and the wealthy aristocracy.

This early square piano was made by Érard Frères & Compagnie in Paris in 1796. The case of the instrument and the fluted legs are made of fine mahogany. The instrument is decorated with band inlays all around the case. The nameboard is signed with:

“Érard Frères & Compagnie

Rue du Mail No. 37

à Paris 1796″

The keyboard has a compass of 5 ½ octaves (FF – c4). The lower keys are covered with ivory and the upper keys with ebony. Above the Second Action is the two-parted dust cover and on the right edge of the case is a second foldable music stand.

Sébastien Erard (1752 – 1831)

On the soundboard next to the bridge is the original handwritten signature with the serial number 3346 and the year of manufacture 1796. The square piano has four wooden pedals, which are inserted in a bar between the two rear legs. The functions are: dampers, moderator, lute and nag’s head swell.

The instrument was found in Brittany/France in December 2022 and was in absolutely original condition. Also present were the original tuning hammer and the key for the lock.

Square Piano Erard, Paris 1796 – Eric Feller Collection (original tuning hammer)

According to the original production books from the Érard company, the instrument was delivered to Monsieur Lefort in Orléans. Further research to the provenance of the instrument are ongoing.

Square Piano Erard, Paris 1796 – Eric Feller Collection (2)

For detailed information about the company Érard click here!

Other surviving instruments by Érard Frères & Compagnie:

• 1805 Square Piano (No. 6447) – MKG – Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe Hamburg, Germany
• 1808 Square Piano (No. 7488) – Cité de la Musique Paris, France