Gibson Piano "From Erards"

[zomsee]

Hi, An old Erard upright piano came to me and I'm wondering if anyone can tell me with any information regarding this piano. On the keyboard lib displays,

"Manufacturer from Erards,
Alexander Gibson
90 Great Dover Street, Southwark
London"

In attempting to find out the serial number, I discovered it on the top right corner as I opened the top lid. The serial number is #5339. It has 3 pedals. The black keyboards are little bit longer than modern pianos. I'm not sure if this is useful information.

Any information is appreciated.

[Bill Kibby]

This is not an Erard piano at all. The important little word is "FROM", and Gibson was trained at the Erard factory before he went into business on his own. It is not possible to date the piano by its number, can you email photos of the whole piano to me?

I have had a quick look through my London lists, and Gibson only seems to have been in business from about 1882 to 1892. If this proves to be correct, it would seem to put the piano "circa 1887".

I would be interested to know what the extra pedal does.