ROBERT WORNUM & SONS DOWNSTRIKING GRAND, LONDON, 1853

Wornum was one of the most ingenious English piano makers. 

He constantly experimented with the shape and the operatio of the piano. 

Following the example of Streicher and Pape he invented his own type of downstriking action that he patented in 1842. In this particular model, the strings are located deep in the bottom of the case, and the wooden frame absorbs all the tension without metal supports being required. The action is located above the strings, and the tuing pins are in front of the keyboard. 

Technical data:

• Inscription: Rob. WORNUM & Sons
• Compass: 6 octaves and 9 notes (CCC-a'''')
• Keyboard: naturals in ivory, sharps in ebony
• Pedals: 2: controlling action shift and dampers
• Dimensions: L 200 cm / W 132 cm
• Case: figured walnut
• Serial number: 1150 10843
• Chris Maene Collection number: CM 31 135
• Condition: original
• Location: 2 - Museum "Chris Maene Collection" Ruiselede