Broadwood 1824

This 1824 (but earlier case style) Broadwood number 29076 is in an extraordinarily complete and well-preserved condition, and appears only to require a simple restoration to bring it back to playing condition.  It is recorded in the Broadwood Porters' books as 'Best, sent on 31 March 1824 to Mr Thomas Pymar of Beccles, Norwich'.  Pymar was a musical instrument dealer.  

5½ octave compass, excellent ivories.

The action is apparently in very good condition, with what appear to be the original leather hammers.  

The soundboard, bridges, and back corner fret are good.  The divided bridge was introduced to grands in the 1790s, and extended to squares shortly before this piano was made.  This acoustically elegant feature preserves equal relative tension by giving the steel strings for the main part of the compass a separate bridge with a longer scaling. This feature was discontinued in the 1830s when brass strings were no longer used.

It has evidently been re-strung comparatively recently, with the correct pattern of close-covered copper on steel, red brass, brass, and then steel to the top.

It is good to see the original green painted 'shade' - these are so often lost.  The piano is in the Aylesbury area (Bucknghamshire, UK).  The ivory exemption code is EJRRADEB.  The price is £275.

Please contact Ian Pleeth forte.piano@zen.co.uk

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