Piano
Thomas Gibson (American, 1763-1858), designer and maker

Details
Title
Piano
Artist/Maker
Thomas Gibson (American, 1763-1858), designer and maker
Date
ca. 1820–1845
Medium
Mahogany and brass
Dimensions
36 1/2 x 68 3/8 x 26 3/4 inches
Credit
Bequest of Cecil F. Johnson, Jr.
Accession #
73.1000.1
On View
Currently not on view
This fine example of high New York style cabinetwork of the early 19th century features an exuberant combination of classical forms from the Empire period and intricate decoration of the Rococo revival period. With the rise of the merchant class during the first quarter of the nineteenth century and the corresponding increase in the number of servants, there was more time for leisurely pursuits among the ladies of a household. Learning to play a musical instrument was one such diversion, and the addition of a piano to the parlor became an important indication of wealth and status. Because of its significance, a suitable case was perhaps even more important than the instrument itself and was therefore made separately by leading cabinetmakers.
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