Christiani Shean, London, George III mahogany cased spinet, ...

Hammer

£6,800

Christiani Shean, London, George III mahogany cased spinet, circa 1780-1800, on a later stand (NB: For a similar example see Edinburgh University Collection of Historical Musical Instruments)
Ivory Act exemption application KXJ9Z7JJ

More Information

This piece has been entered from a private collection, and although not confirmed, knowing where it comes from, we are confident that it will have been purchased from a specialist dealer. As we are not instrument specialists we cannot confirm the extent of the originality of every element of the piece, but there has definitely been a programme of restoration. We have provided additional images for your consideration. All the strings are present but are replacements. The walnut veneered board holding the keys appears to be original, albeit restored, and on it there is an inscription in pencil which reads ‘Ann Ogilvy 2 West Nicholson Street 1810’. The ivory keys appear to be original. 41 of the total number of keys sound when first struck, to a stiffer or easier degree, the others being very stiff or soundless, and the failure rate is higher at the lower end of the octaves. The case is generally in good condition, albeit restored. There are a couple of old splits to the top which have now been repaired. Small split to the moulding above the S-shaped closure pin. Although we cannot guarantee it, the stand has the hallmarks of being original, with some pretty hefty bolts in it and some warping in the cross stretchers. The instrument has the air of having been stored for some time, possibly in slightly damp conditions.
Length of the back 188cm
Maximum depth (to front right hand side of keyboard) 77cm
Width at the front 122cm
Height on stand 83cm
Height of instrument 22.5cm