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J. G. Irmler 1924

Description

Date:

1924

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Origin:

Leipzig

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Serialnumber:

24883

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The 1920s, also known as the “Roaring Twenties“, was a time of upheaval and cultural revolution that took place in many parts of the world. This decade was marked by major changes in politics, society, economics and culture, which had a strong impact on people’s lives. After the end of World War I, many countries experienced an economic boom that led to increased living standards and a sense of optimism. A new urban culture flourished in the cities, characterised by jazz music, dance, literature, fashion and art. The Art Deco style experienced its heyday in the 1920s and 1930s. This elegant and avant-garde style was influenced by a mix of different cultural influences, including Egyptian, Persian, and modernism. Art Deco is characterised by geometric shapes, clean lines, symmetrical patterns and an abundance of decorative elements. This style has been applied in various fields such as architecture, interior design, fashion, jewellery, furniture and instrument making. Musical instruments of the Art Deco style are also characterised by their elegant and often luxurious design. They were often decorated with geometric patterns, decorative carvings, fine woods and glossy finishes that were typical of the Art Deco style. The piano manufacturer J. G. Irmler also followed this trend. The instrument presented here impresses with its elegant shape in light wood and the geometrically decorated music stand. The piano was built in Leipzig in 1924. The instrument stands on 3 legs that taper downwards. The keyboard is made of ivory and ebony and the signature on the nameboard reads:

“J. G. Irmler

Leipzig”

The hammers of the piano are covered with felt, triple strung (double strung in the bass) and single dampers. The instrument is cross-stringed over a steel frame and has two pedals for dampers and due corde. The keyboard has a compass of 7 ¼ octaves, AAA – c5. The soundboard shows the serial number 24883.

This grand piano is impressive with its warm sound and excellent craftsmanship.

The instrument is currently on permanent loan in the Old Pastorate in Stellau/Wrist.

Art Déco Grand Piano by J. G. Irmler, Leipzig 1924 (2) – Eric Feller Collection

Johann Christian Gottlieb Irmler was born on February 11th in Obergrumbach, near Dresden. He learnt to play the piano and violin in his youth and was considered very musical. He later learnt a profession in carpentry and travelled through Saxony, Thuringia and Bavaria. He studied piano making in Vienna but settled in Leipzig and worked for Breitkopf & Härtel for some time. He then became self-employed in Leipzig and, at the age of 28 and founded his own piano making house on April 8, 1818, based in the Barfußmühle. Irmler’s instruments had a very good reputation and the company quickly expanded due to growing demand. In 1828 the company moved to larger premises on Leplaystrasse. The company also distinguished itself through new inventions in piano construction. In 1842, Johann Christian Irmler received the Great Golden Saxon Royal State Medal from the King of Saxony for a new type of repeating action.

J. G. Irmler Pianoforte Company – Eckert & Pflug, Leipzig 1893

Johann Christian Irmler died on December 10, 1857 and the company was continued by his sons Otto (1820 – 1861) and Oswald (1835 – 1905). In 1861 the company was modernised by using steam engines. Due to Otto’s early death at the age of just 41, Oswald, then only 26 years old, continued to run the company alone until his death. Oswald’s son then continued to run the company. During the Second World War, the company on Leplaystrasse and the warehouse on Turnerstrasse were completely destroyed in 1943. Instruments were then manufactured until the 1950s.

Art Déco Grand Piano by J. G. Irmler, Leipzig 1924 (3) – Eric Feller Collection