1870s Square Grand Piano

Here's another unique item in our store today.

According to Michael at Antique Piano Shop, the piano (pictured ABOVE) is made of Brazilian Rosewood and is of the Rococo Victorian Style. 

Brazilian Rosewood is endangered today, and nearly impossible to get. It is very desirable as a result. It appears the piano has had some refurbishing in the past, however the quality of the work looks to be less than the best quality. Restoration work that isn't historically accurate and the best quality can actually hurt the value of a piano like this, not help it. The piano would require a professional, historically accurate restoration in order to be tunable and usable long term -- and thereby worth top dollar.

His shop restores between 8 - 10 pianos at any given time, and stated that people are beginning to realize the actual value of these pianos rather than considering them to be "white elephants". 

Here is an exerpt from their website:

These magnificent instruments were once very popular in both America and Europe during the Victorian era. 

They were produced from about 1850 to about 1880 and were usually hand made with intricately carved rosewood, mahogany, or ebony cabinets. Although quite large in appearance, its tone is very different than contemporary instruments. The square piano sounds reminiscent of the early pianoforte of Mozart's era with a tone that is best described as having a soft, harp like quality.

For the past decade, there has been a growing interest in these instruments. This revival of of the square piano has caused the demand for these instruments to increase significantly, as well as their value.

Any piano this old will require total restoration. Pianos are made of materials that tend to deteriorate over time. Felt, leather and rubber tends to simply break down and rot over the years. Not too many companies specialize in restoring these pianos because a lot of the parts are obsolete and have to be made by hand.

Contemporary piano tuners are not willing to invest the time and attention required to restore these special pianos. 

Unrestored grand square pianos have been selling for approx $2,500 to $3,000 on EBAY or Craig's list. 

If someone is willing to pay to have this piano restored, that would cost between $10000 - $13000, however, after a total frame off professional restoration they often can sell in the $25,000 - $35000 range.

PIANO STOOL: Square Grand pianos did not have piano benches -- it was simply a stool.. (which we do have and will not sell separately).

If you're interested in this piano, CONTACT me right now. Thanks.