Piano Forte c. 1936

Lawrence Phillips made this watercolor and graphite drawing of a Piano Forte sometime in the 20th century. The piano represents more than just a musical instrument; it's a symbol of cultural aspiration and social class. Made in America, this image invites us to consider how the piano was marketed and consumed. The piano was not just for making music, but for displaying refinement and social standing. What did it mean to have a piano in your parlor in the United States? How did the piano become linked with notions of domesticity and leisure? Phillips invites us to question how industries influenced artistic production. To fully appreciate this artwork, one could research the history of musical instrument manufacturing, consider advertising and consumption, and look into domestic spaces of the time. Ultimately, our understanding of Phillips' image is enriched by exploring the social conditions that gave rise to its creation.