A grand piano has remained a timeless staple of both luxury and art. A classic item of bestowment through the generations, garnering nightly standing ovations on the world stage, these valuable instruments have remained a steadfast example of uniting cultures through the bonds of music. Cherished heirlooms that have survived wars and transcontinental migrations, owning a grand piano is a testament to the passion for restoring and preserving an iconic piece of history.
Four years ago, we acquired an estate containing a very rare Hornung & Møller rosewood piano crafted in Copenhagen. Hornung & Møller dominated the piano industry in the mid-1800s, founded by hat-maker Conrad Christian Hornung (1801-1873).
The Danish piano company introduced iron frames to the world of piano engineering. The instrument is an important specimen in piano history — a rare piece renowned for its ornately decorated rosewood details and unique cast iron frame, partnered with quality Danish carpentry.
By 1843, the factory achieved the prestigious honor of supplying piano instruments to the royal court. In 1851, Hornung transferred the entire company to his employee Hans Peter Møller, whose name was added to the company's name. At Møller's death in 1859, the company was led by his widow, with his 20-year-old son Frederik Møller as general manager. In 1872, Conrad Christian Hornung (a nephew, b. 1842) emigrated to the United States and expanded the family's piano empire in San Francisco, California. The factories closed in July 1972 after producing more than 50,000 instruments for acclaimed artists, politicians, and celebrities, not to mention holding residency in a number of the world's best concert halls.
While we may have anticipated finding a home for such a prized instrument would be easy, the cost of purchasing an antique grand piano to restore has been the lament of even the most passionate artists. For such a beautiful work of art to remain hidden in our shop is a travesty to the craft of this one-of-a-kind piece. Simply because we find more value in the floor space it is currently occupying, we want to offer the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own this fantastic musical instrument completely free of charge.
That's right, FREE! The original owners simply want to ensure this amazing piano finds a good home and are willing to donate it to a passionate musician, creative artisan, or loving home or community center. All you have to do is get it moved out of our store.
Imagine the chance to restore this piano without being weighed by the cost of purchase. You can even repurpose the gorgeous rosewood into a new life as a table or cabinet. Or simply allow it to adorn your space for whenever an impromptu musical activity may arise. We cannot wait to see who will jump at this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own the very rare Hornung & Møller grand piano for free.
If you'd like to know more, please contact Gary Germer & Associates at info@garygermer.com or call 503.235.0946.
