[jbennett]

Can anyone tell me if there was a register for any early Chappell pianos.
I own a Chappell Foreign model serial number H 2084 there is another number under that one which is 253. Not sure when this piano was shipped to New Zealand but would love to know some of its history. Many Thanks.

[Bill Kibby]

Chappell's archives were lost in a fire in the sixties. This is not a serial number, but may be a Harrods stock number, suggesting that they sold it around 1902, although we cannot tell whether it was new or secondhand then. Have a look at the Datemarks & Archives pages at www.PianoGen.org
_________________
I do not buy, sell or value pianos, but I sometimes rescue pre-1890 pianos in the UK.

For more details see my own website: http://www.pianogen.org

Piano History Centre

The World's Largest Collection of
Historical Information about British Pianos.

[jbennett]

Many thanks Bill for that infomation I did another check on the piano and came across another number which was engraved in the woodwork under the lid which was 5593 so hopefully that helps. Shame about the fire destroying records but will keep on searching. The previous owner thought it was once owned by Governor Grey but have not been able to contact him to fnd out how he got his information. It certainly looks old and has very ornate brass pedals, turned legs and ornate edges although it does need restoring and some of the keys do not work. I still think it is a beautiful piece. regards Janet

[Bill Kibby]

The Governor may well have had archives containing piano receipts etc., let me know if you find any. 5593 suggests 1856, but these early published numbers for Chappell and others are often misleading, and you are better off looking for datemarks. See the Numbers page at www.PianoGen.org

Any chance you could email me some photos?
_________________
I do not buy, sell or value pianos, but I sometimes rescue pre-1890 pianos in the UK.

For more details see my own website: http://www.pianogen.org

Piano History Centre

The World's Largest Collection of
Historical Information about British Pianos.