Square Piano 1822 - 1824

This Square Piano was made by Alpheus Babcock, who lived from 1785 to 1842. The piano's exterior is crafted with precision, the wood skillfully joined and finished. Notice the elegant turned legs, each displaying the maker’s mastery of woodworking. The tactile quality of the polished wood invites touch, connecting us to the maker's hand and the instrument’s history. The keys, crafted from contrasting materials, offer a visual and tactile delight. What’s remarkable about the piano is that these design features also serve the practical purpose of enabling music making. In this way, the instrument collapses the distinction between ‘fine art’ and ‘design’. Pianos like these were status symbols for wealthy families, bringing music and culture into the home, and providing employment for instrument makers and musicians alike. So next time you hear a piano, think about the artistry and craft that went into its creation.