Steinway & Sons - Late 19th Century decorated mahogany 'Patent Grand Piano', No. 42003, circa 1880. 7 octaves, pierced music desk over fall board inscribed 'Steinway & Sons Patent Grand. New York, London, Hamburg', stamped number behind key slip, refurbished gilt cast iron plate with studwork decoration to the bent side and four apertures, various cast patents, later list of Appointments including Edward VII, case with all-over decoration simulating marquetry, over three-pedal lyre, turned tapering supports, brass caps and castors, 136cm wide x 184cm x 98cm high (closed)

We are grateful to Steinway of London and New York for the following information:

“Steinway Serial Nr. 42006 corresponds in our records to a New-York Grand Model A^I Ebonized (black varnish), Engraved, English Legs, French Polished, 7 octaves (85 notes), 3 pedals, length 6', round tail, completed on 24^th March 1880 and shipped to Steinway & Sons of London, England, on 26^th April 1880. The decorations do not appear to be original. This was a fancy case in its original condition, but it appears to have been refinished in a wood finish with colored decorations whereas the original decorations were engraved with a black finish.” The piano appears to have been re-strung at some point and this would account for the soundboard transfer bearing information later than the date of manufacture.