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Joseph Kirckman 1805

Description

Date:

1805

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Origin:

London

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Serialnumber:

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Joseph Kirckman was one of the most important piano makers in London at the beginning of the 19^th century and came from a family with a long tradition of instrument making. The Kirckman company, originally founded by his grandfather Jacob Kirchmann (1710–1792; the name was later anglicized to Kirckman/Kirkman), was already one of England’s leading instrument-making companies in the 18^th century, famous for its fine harpsichords.

Kirckman’s instruments were characterized by fine craftsmanship, precise mechanics, and clarity of sound. A distinctive feature of Kirckman’s pianos was the elaborate workmanship of the case, often adorned with fine inlays. He also placed great importance on technical innovations to improve the playability and longevity of the instruments.

The square piano presented here dates from 1805 and was made in London. The case of the instrument is crafted from mahogany and features surrounding multi-colored inlays made from different types of wood. The instrument itself stands on a French stand with a music shelf. The lower keys are covered with ivory, and the upper keys with ebony. The nameboard is made of various types of wood and decorated with fretwork on the sides. In the center, there is an oval cartouche with the signature:

“Joseph Kirckman
Piano Forte Maker
to Her Majesty
London 1805”

The instrument has a pedal to control the dampers. The action operates on the double-action principle, with hammers covered in leather, and the square piano is double-strung. Instruments from the Kirckman workshop are very rare and characterized by excellent craftsmanship and an exceptional sound aesthetic, valued for its warm, sustained, and clearly defined tone quality.

Square Piano by Joseph Kirckman, London 1805 – Eric Feller Collection (nameboard)

Detailed information about the History of Kirkman can be found in the publications on this site – click here!

Other surviving instruments by Joseph Kirckman:

• c. 1830 Cabinet Piano – Glasgow Museums & Art Galleries, Glasgow England
• c. 1835 Cabinet Piano – Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, Edith Cowan University, Perth Australia
• Grand Fortepiano – Royal Palace Mafra, Portugal

Square Piano by Joseph Kirckman, London 1805 – Eric Feller Collection (Keyboard)