Square Piano, circa 1833

01

Artifact Overview

A piano was an important symbol of refinement for prosperous families during the early 1800s. Pianos, like this beautifully inlaid and decoratively painted Empire-styled instrument, offered a young woman the opportunity to display her musical skills and served as fashionable parlor furniture as well.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Square piano

Date Made

circa 1833

Creator Notes

Piano made by Joseph Hisky in Baltimore, Maryland. Engraving by William Bannerman and John Medairy after a drawing by Samuel Smith.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

72.136.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Mahogany (Wood)
Satinwood (Wood)
Ebony (Hardwood)
Brass (Alloy)
Ivory (Tooth component)
Spruce (Wood)

Dimensions

Height: 36 in
Width: 67 in
Length: 32 in

Inscriptions

JOSEPH HISKY / BALTIMORE / ENGRAVED BY MEDAIRY & BANNERMAN FROM DRAWINGS BY S. SMITH
Square Piano, circa 1833