Today we’re discussing one of our frequently asked questions: how do I know if my antique piano or organ originally came with a stool or a bench?
During the 19th century and turn-of-the-century era, the women of the family were often the pianists – and consider what they wore. Fashion of that era consisted of anything from hoop skirts to bustles and corsets, long flowing skirts and heavy tapestry.
Imagine a Civil War era Southern belle sitting on a bench and her hoop skirt flipping up over her head! It would have been impossible for the Victorian lady to sit on a bench without seriously compromising her modesty.
The piano and organ stools of the Victorian era were means by which an elegant lady could “perch” with her crinoline draped unspoiled while she sat at the keyboard.
In the early 20th century, as fashion trends changed and less restrictive garments like pants came into fashion, the piano bench began to become popular for its more utilitarian use. By the ‘teens and early ‘twenties, most instruments were sold with benches than stools.
For more information on if your piano originally came with a stool or a bench, watch the video below.
