Pianoforte 1808

erardfreres

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This grand piano, "Pianoforte," was crafted in 1808 by Erard Frères, renowned for their innovative designs. It features an elegant, dark wood finish and intricate gilt ornamentation, typical of early 19th-century French craftsmanship. The hinged lid reveals a meticulously crafted interior and the presence of a music stand suggests its intended use for performance. This piece exemplifies the artistry and innovation of the piano-making era.

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rijksmuseum over 1 year ago

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King Louis Napoleon ordered this sumptuous piano for his musical wife Hortense, who also played the harp and the harpsichord. It was intended for the concert hall at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam. The instrument was also a showpiece, made of many costly materials and decorated with gilt-bronze ornament (ormolu). When Louis Napoleon abdicated in 1810, he left the piano in the blue salon at the palace.