Brinsmead piano 1891?

[annie mcgee]

Hello,

I would appreciate your help.
I have just acquired a Brinsmead piano and would like information.
On the inside of the keyboard cover there is gold printing. It says:
"To the Imperial Court of Persia. Then it has a large signature of:
"F. Moggridge London". Then is says "from John Brinsmead and Sons". There are two circles, like a seal of some kind on either side of that that contain the words "gained highest award 1891". Above the keyboard in gold letters are the words "Trichord Upright Iron Grand". The piano appears to be made of Burl wood, and has a spray of flowers in a light color wood in the center front. I have the following questions:

1. Who was F. Moggridge and why his name is on the piano?
2. Was this piano really given to the country of Persia, and if so, why? Would there be an article referencing this that is available?
3. Where would I find the serial number on the piano?
4. There are three screw holes on the both sides of the front of the piano, and I assume some candle holders were mounted there. Is it possible to buy these holders, or is there a site where I might look for them?
5. Is 1891 the year it was made?
6. Is there any historical value because of the connection to "Persia"since the name has now changed to Iran?
7. It is in good shape cabinet wise, but has some keys that don't play or are "lazy". Is it possible to have it repaired here in the US, or is it too expensive?

It is a pretty piano, and I'd like to be able to play it and teach my grand children to play. I don't have a lot of money so I wonder if I am in over my head! It doesn't have to be perfect, but just repaired to the point of being playable and in tune. I hope to hear from you and greatly appreciate the help you may be able to provide.

Best wishes from Oklahoma USA, and best regards,

Annie McGee (ais4annie615@yahoo.com)

[Bill Kibby]

Some of your questions will be answered by the Medals page at www.PianoGen.org

Is it a Brinsmead piano at all? Moggridge was a dealer, trained at the Brinsmead factory, and he later sold Brinsmead pianos as well as his own. He exported some to Persia, but had trouble getting paid. The reference to Persia is not exciting, the name change is fairly modern. Sconces (candleholders) are not available to original designs, and nobody knows what type this particular piano would have had. It's pot luck finding them, I found two good pairs in 30 years. You'd have to ask technicians near you whether they are up to the task of repairing it, and how much they would charge.

Brinsmead serial numbers are usually fairly easy to see inside the top of the piano.