1839
Established in 1807, the French firm Pleyel produced instruments favored by many pianists, including Chopin. Around 1811, Pleyel began producing small upright pianos, called “Pianinos.” These widely popular instruments were well suited to home use while being more powerful than the older, English square pianofortes.
This miniature version is the only known example of its size. It was sold to French army General Bleine—a close friend and benefactor of Rouget de Lisle—composer of La Marseillaise.
Acquired 1981
Range: C-f3
“Baert” stamped on bass bridge