E. Bishops and Sons

[emmily]

I have an E. Bishops and Sons upright piano that I am trying to get some more information on. It says E. Bishops and Sons London where the strings are located as well as on the key protector. Also on the key protector ( if that is what it is called) there is an inscription saying " manufactured specially for Peter Maxwell of 585 & 587 Paisley Rd (Car Terminus) Glasgow Scotland." I believe there may be a serial number of 44450? I am mainly trying to find a date when it was made and possible how much it is worth any help would be appreciated. Thank you very much.

[Colin Nicholson]

The correct name for the 'key protector' is called the fallboard - the lid that covers the keys. There are no records of E. Bishop & sons, however the company name could have originated from a Joseph Bishop & Co. who were established in 1877.

If you type in "Stencil piano" into google, this will give you are description of pianos named by family members, composers, towns/ cities - and even names made up.
The serial number is then of no use regrettably because there are no records of this piano name. Unfortunately many pianos cannot be traced - there is no bluebook or history catalogue for many pianos - and like yours, it will remain unknown - and only of sentimental value to you.

If you would like an approx. age for your piano, you will need to download a photo or 2 of the full piano - no clutter, nothing on the piano, no stools or animals. We need to see the name on the fallboard close up (to determine if the name is original looking), a photo of the whole front, including the legs, panel work, cabinet shape, pedal design, and any other interesting features - such as inlaid flowers, sconces (brass work) - that sort of thing.

Please do not send a photo of the serial number - remember, this cannot be traced, so therefore pointless in sending a picture of it.

Photos also need to be clear, in focus and used with a flash - then sent as JPG format.
See "How to download in image" on the first topic.

Failing that, you may need to contact a piano tuner (who has experience in buying selling/ trade pianos) for a date and valuation. You may also need to reveal the following:
1. What you paid for the piano
2. How long have you owned the piano
3. Wood finish/ colour
4. Mechanism type & stringing design (eg overstrung)
5. Previous invoices showing tunings/ servicing on a regular basis.

Pretty much the same as you would describe or sell a car.

Thanks for your enquiry....

Colin