Pleyel Grand Piano, Paris 1870

About the Item

This Pleyel concert grand piano crafted in Paris in 1870 is a timeless masterpiece that embodies the elegance and craftsmanship of 19th-century French piano manufacturing. Pleyel instruments are renowned for their exceptional quality and rich musicality, representing the pinnacle of piano design in the Romantic era, and this piano – an early example of the technological innovation of cross-stringing that was burgeoning during the period – is one in a series of only six ever produced. This piano is in extraordinarily immaculate condition with nearly every original part, including the soundboard, pristine ivory keys, and the brass inlay in its beautifully figured walnut cabinet. Candle stands slide forward on either side of the collapsable music desk. This piano was first purchased by the French Count Charles Étienne Gustave Le Clerc, count of Juigné (1825-1900), one of the wealthiest landowners in Brittany and a member of the French National Assembly, later a member of the House of Representatives, and in late life, the Senate. The piano was restored in 1997 at Maison Erard by master restorationist Frits Janmaat in Amsterdam, and later conditioned by Edwin Beunk. In recent years, some of Europe's finest historically-informed musical artists played this Pleyel in PBS concert performances in collaboration with the late Sergiu Luca. Standing on substantial carved legs and brass wheels, the piano exudes a majestic presence through the graceful lines of its Second Empire style cabinet that embodies the period's aesthetics. The keyboard, meticulously crafted from ivory and ebony, is a testament to the attention to detail in every aspect. Its 85 keys provide a responsive touch and a previously unparalleled dynamic range, enabling the pianist to convey the full spectrum of emotions within their music. One of the standout features of this Pleyel concert grand is its distinctive soundboard. Made from the finest spruce wood, it is expertly crowned to maximize resonance and projection. The instrument's signature warm and singing tone, often associated with French pianos of this era, is enhanced by the use of a full cast-iron frame, which ensures stability and longevity. The action mechanism, meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans, is a marvel of engineering for its time. Each key is connected to the hammers with precision, allowing for precise control over dynamics and articulation. The touch is responsive and light, perfect for the delicate nuances of the romantic repertoire. Pleyel's commitment to quality is evident throughout, making this concert grand piano not just a musical instrument, but also a work of art, a symbol of the elegance and the refinement of 19th-century Paris. Throughout its history, Pleyel concert grands have graced the stages of the most prestigious concert halls and were the instrument of choice for renowned composers and pianists of the era, such as Frédéric Chopin. Its enduring legacy continues to captivate musicians and collectors alike, representing a golden age of piano craftsmanship and musical expression. Truly an enduringly handsome and high-performance, concert-calibre instrument.

Creator:
Pleyel (Maker)
Dimensions:
Height: 38.5 in (97.79 cm)Width: 54.5 in (138.43 cm)Depth: 103.25 in (262.26 cm)
Style:
Romantic (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Walnut
Place of Origin:
France
Period:
17th Century
Date of Manufacture:
1870
Condition:
Replacements made: The piano was restored in 1997 at Maison Erard by master restorationist Frits Janmaat in Amsterdam, and later conditioned by Edwin Beunk. Wear consistent with age and use. Only very minor instances of wear. See photos. This piano is in astounding condition. The action and sound are remarkable and comparable with the finest contemporary pianos.
Seller Location:
Littleton, CO
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU5401236222782
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