Un-named piano

adriannorris · Post by **adriannorris** » 26 Feb 2005, 19:34

I was wondering if anyone could help me identify my old piano. I'm guessing any markings on the outside of the case have long since gone. A friend tells me it is an under-damped & over-strung upright, with the following words along the top of the iron frame just above where the strings are fixed.

"Gold Medal Brussels Exhibition" then it has the words, "Est 1842" surrounding a raised metal circle, and then it says "Model 1A No 27402" to the right. This text is below the Gold Medal text.

I'd really be grateful if anyone could help me to identify my piano and a little of its history.

Many Thanks

Adrian

Post by **Bill Kibby** » 26 Feb 2005, 20:26

This is all I have found immediately, more to follow!

1842 Later Cramer pianos are often marked "Established 1842" but the significance of this date is unclear, and it may just be a misprint for 1824. They were not yet piano makers, and not called Cramer & Co.!

1842 Russell established? Alfred Dolge “Pianos and their makers” (1911) lists Russell & Co. as being established in 1842.

1842 Durrant's established, Rugby.
1842 J. & J. Goddard established, London
1842 Ch. Gehrling actions established, Paris

1897 Ibach exhibited his pianos at the Brussels World Fair, with some "interesting innovations".

adriannorris · Post by **adriannorris** » 27 Feb 2005, 15:20

Many thanks for the initial thoughts. Not sure if it helps to Id the piano, but the whole hammer assembly lifts out for servicing, etc. with just two finger nuts are removed (top right and top left). If you think it would help, I could e-mail a couple of digital pics?

Anyway, thanks for having a look into it for me.

Regards

Adrian

Post by **Bill Kibby** » 27 Feb 2005, 18:21

Certainly, any photos might help, especally a view of the outside, and as much interior detail as possible. The rear of the action ( the working parts of the notes) may also have useful markings. See
http://www.uk-piano.org/piano-gen/datem ... ianos.html