This square piano is attributed to Jn. Nägelé in Paris, France after 1800. The inscription on the nameboard reads “Jn. Nägelé / Rue de la Tixérandérie en face du Mouton No 15 à Paris 1785.” It is doubtful that this piano was made by Nägelé as several factors about this instrument are problematic. Though the nameboard is inscribed with the date 1785, it was originally made for a smaller instrument and has been extended on both ends. There is also indication that the compass of the piano has been extended. 1785 is too early a date for a piano with this compass. This piano is serial number 15 and has a compass of FF-f4, single (Zumpe) action, leather hammers, double-strings throughout, first 12 notes are wound, tuning pins on the right, 2 knee levers: lute (missing) and dampers, wood frame, and a wood case.
