William Southwell  c. 1790s 

William Southwell of Dublin was one of the most important figures in the development of the piano.  His 1794 patent (licensed to Longman & Broderip) introduced the 'Additional Keys' extending the compass of the square piano to 5½ octaves by means of hammers attacking the strings through a slot in the soundboard, and the light and efficient overhead gravity damper.  The patent also included 'sonovents' - the silk-backed frets at either end of the nameboard.  These innovations gave an immediate advantage to Longman & Broderip (soon to be Clementi Co). As the patents expired (or sometimes before then) these innovations were universally adopted by other makers, and formed the basis for British and Irish square pianos until the end.  

This piano was generously offered Free to Good Home - a rare opportunity indeed to own an important piano.

The nameboard is adorned with a beautiful painted decoration featuring a very friendly lion and a magnificent unicorn - so stunning that the camera had difficulty focussing properly!

Good hammers, and those patented dampers...

... and the slot in the soundboard for the hammers of the 'additional keys'.

The overspun bass strings are original; all the steel strings have been replaced.

NEW HOME FOUND  

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