Livingston and Cook piano

[patc]

I have a Livingston and Cook antique piano. I was told by a man who repaired some keys for me (appx 20 yrs ago) that the piano was about 200 or 250 years old. I can't seem to find a serial # on the piano. It had candle holders attached to the front at one time, however they are missing now. It is a small upright piano, possibly made of cherry wood. I would love to know how to estimate its age and have an idea of its value.

[Bill Kibby]

The upright piano did not exist as such 200 years ago, and sconces (candle-holders) were mainly used between about 1820 and 1920. Serial numbers are no use because they are not published for this name. The London firm Livingstone & Cook were not established until 1897. Would youi please give me the complete, exact wording and spelling on the piano.

[patc]

Thanks so much for your reply. I did have my doubts about the age, however, due to the fact there had been candle holders attached, I thought perhaps it had been built prior to Edison's fine contribution. The wording on the inside keyboard cover of the piano is as follows: LIVINGSTONE & COOK, then below that is: LONDON, below that, just above the keys is: IRON FRAME. CHECK ACTION. TRICHORD I greatly appreciate any more information you could give me.

[Bill Kibby]

Livingstone & Cook were established in London in 1897, and their address in 1911 was 67 Poet's Road, Highbury N. By 1914, the same address was described as Newington Green N. They seem to have gone by the twenties.