Square Piano by Pfeiffer

This elegant piano-table was built by Jean Pfeiffer (1769–1838), one of the leading piano and harp makers working in Paris during the early nineteenth century. The instrument is a superb example of the Empire style, with a case veneered in richly figured mahogany and adorned with gilded bronze mounts. It stands on four legs fashioned as Doric columns, while the keyboard is strikingly decorated with ebony and mother-of-pearl veneers. The nameboard, executed in églomisé glass, bears the inscription: Pfeiffer / Brevetés et Encouragés du Gouvernement / Rue du Mail N°29, à Paris 1818 

Beyond its luxurious appearance, the instrument is notable for its unusual mechanical features. Whereas most pianos of the period were equipped with only two or three pedals, this example has five: bassoon, lute, forte, céleste, and turquerie. The first four alter the tone colour of the instrument, creating a variety of distinctive sound effects.

The fifth pedal, however, is particularly remarkable. Known as the turquerie pedal, it activates a tambourine mounted beneath the instrument, adding a percussive accompaniment to the music

Photo Credit: Hermans wikicommons