Fortepiano

The world fairs and industrial exhibitions held regularly during the 19th century provided manufacturers with an opportunity to compare their products directly with those of the competition. Thus the medals and awards presented at these events were much sought-after. At the Paris Exposition of 1867, the Bösendorfer Company took part in the regular competition with two pianos from series production, and these were awarded silver medals. In addition, it was intended to present two magnificent pianos with lavishly decorated bodies. Their production is said to have taken more than two years, and the pianos could not be transported to Paris in time for the opening. Thus they could not be submitted in the regular competition. Nevertheless the two instruments excited great public and press interest. The body of the depicted instrument is covered with contrasting wood veneers and intarsia of metal strips. The gilt caryatids are reminiscent of the Great Hall of the Musikverein, which was built at the same time in Vienna on plans by Theophil Hansen. (bd)