Broadwood 1805  N° 8898

Free to Good Home

John Broadwood made his first pianos around 1780, and production was established by 1784.  These early pianos featured the English single action paired with Broadwood's beautiful patented brass under-dampers - a delightful combination suited to the early composers for the instrument.  But Geib's escapement action (1786) and Southwell's wire-operated 'Irish' dampers (1794), the patents for which were both held by Longman & Broderip, were to be the way forward, and early in the new century were adopted by Broadwoods. This one is 'transitional', with the new dampers but still single action.  Good to see that the cream painted shade is still present - these are so often lost.

John Broadwood's eldest son, James Shudi Broadwood, was made partner in the business in 1793, hence 'John Broadwood and Son.  His second son, Thomas, was made partner in 1808, when the firm became 'John Broadwood and Sons' as it still is today.

We note the excellent condition of the satinwood nameboard and ivory keys.

Apart from some replacement strings, it seems to be undisturbed, and hence in need of thorough cleaning!

No structural problems or issues with the soundbpoard and bridge are immediately apparent, and the owner assures us that all the notes work.  As well as thorough cleaning, it does deserve a new set of strings, followed by the usual adjustments and of course tuning.  It did originally have a pedal; this is now missing, but was a simple fabrication from flat pieces of mahogany to match the elegant French stand.  Holes in the bottom of the piano and the music shelf are a guide for restoring this.

This piano is generously being offered Free to Good Home, and as an uncondtional gift it is unaffected by the requirements of the UK 2018 Ivory Act.  

It is in Cheshire; we should mention that it is in an upstairs bedroom and the owner will not be able to help with moving it.  

Please contact Anthea Barker davidbarker347@outlook.com

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