Square Piano by Wise, J
Maker:
Wise, J
Number of manuals:
One
Year:
1840
Museum:
National Museum of American History
Date Range
1800-1850
Current Location:
North America
Material:
Rosewood
Painter:
Pedals:
Two
Catalogue Number:
CEP-4048
Origin:
North America
Type:
Square Piano
This square piano was made by J.J. Wise and Brother in Baltimore, Maryland about 1840. John J. Wise received a patent in 1839 for an “improvement in the action of pianos-fortes” (U.S. Patent number 1,205) which is indicated as a “Detached Composite Action” on the nameboard inscription. This piano is serial number 45 and has a compass of CC-g4, Wise square action, felt (?) hammers, single-strings for the first 6 notes, double-strings for the rest, tuning pins at the back, 2 pedals: moderator and dampers, an iron hitch-pin plate frame, and a rosewood case.
Credit: Smithsonian