Grand Piano (Hexagonal) by Pape, J

Pape became one of the nineteenth century's most innovative piano makers, securing numerous patents and earning widespread recognition for his technical ingenuity. His work was honoured with silver medals at the Paris Exhibitions of 1823 and 1827, followed by gold medals in 1834, 1839, and 1844.

Among his most significant innovations were the down-striking action and the introduction of felt-covered piano hammers, developments that had a lasting influence on piano construction. In 1828 he introduced the compact console piano, an upright instrument with remarkably small dimensions, and he also experimented with unusual case designs, including hexagonal and oval pianos.

Pape's workshop trained several notable piano makers, including Carl Bechstein (1826–1900) and Frederick Mathushek (1814–1891). He died on 2 February 1875 in Asnières-sur-Seine, near Paris

Photo Credit: Louislegrand14