Mathushek Colibri Model Victorian Square Grand Piano

Frederick Mathushek was one of the most celebrated innovators in American piano history. His designs and patents changed piano building forever, and his instruments, although rare, are considered some of the finest pianos ever built.

$35,000 after total restoration
(not including applicable sales tax & shipping charges)
DEPOSITS: The restoration of this instrument has not been completed. A 30% deposit is required on instruments pending restoration. This deposit holds the instrument and keeps it from being offered to another clients, and it also makes that piano's restoration a priority. Once we complete the restoration, we invite the client to visit our shop to see and hear the piano. If the client is unable to visit our shop, we will send professional photos and videos of the piano for review. The client then has the option of paying the balance and purchasing the piano, transferring their balance to another piano in our shop, or getting a full refund for their deposit. The client is never at risk.
For Sale
Pay a 30% deposit per item
SPECIFICATIONS
YEAR: 1879
FINISH: Brazilian Rosewood
STATUS: Pending Restoration
DESCRIPTION

One of the most amazing contributions that Fredrick Mathushek made to the American Piano Industry was the design of his little “Colibri” model (also called the “Hummingbird” model) square grand piano.  Mathushek spent years experimenting with this design, and his ultimate goal was to achieve the largest, fullest sound from the smallest size instrument. These tiny square grand pianos are only about 2/3 the size of a normal square grand, but their tone quality is generally as good, if not better, than most large pianos! Mathushek’s genius is apparent in the radically different design of his stringing patterns, etc., which allow a piano this size to have the tone and touch of a full size instrument. These pianos were very popular in the 19th Century, and they were praised by the industry at large as being a scientific phenomenon.

This instrument is a later model Colibri from 1879.  The piano is made of beautiful Brazilian Rosewood and is of the Rococo Victorian style.  Note the beautifully carved legs and moldings. These instruments sold new for as much as several hundred dollars in the 19thCentury – the cost of a small house.

This piano will be restored to like-new condition, inside and out.  If desired, this piano can be equipped with the Pianomation player system, and can play by itself by connecting to any streaming smart device.  Thousands of song titles are available.

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