SEBASTIEN MERCIER UPRIGHT PIANO, PARIS, 1831

In 1830, Sébastien Mercier began working as an independent piano maker.

Before that, he became familiar with the rise of the upright piano in France while working in the workshop of Roller & Blanchet, who were pioneers in making more compact pianos for the bourgeoisie. By arranging the strings diagonally from the upper left to the lower right, they were able to use longer strings within a case of limited height. This principle created a semicircular recess at the bottom, which gave these instruments names such as “piano-pont,” “niche de chien,” or “dog kennel.”

Mercier’s instruments were highly refined, both in terms of their mechanism and their finish. They were therefore intended for the salons of the wealthier bourgeoisie.

Technical data:

• Inscription: 1831 S. Mercier Facteur de Pianodroits perfectionner Basse-Saint-Pierre 4
• Compass: 6 octaves (FF - f'''')
• Keyboard: naturals in ivory, sharps in ebony
• Pedals: 2: moderator and forte
• Dimensions: W 152 cm / D 52 cm / H 102 cm
• Case: mahogany with holly stringing and inlay
• Serial number: 55
• Chris Maene Collection number: CM 44 299
• Condition: unrestored
• Location: 2 - Museum "Chris Maene Collection" Ruiselede