1880's Genossenschaft Grand Piano - World's Fair Exhibition | Piano Gallery
The 1880's Genossenschaft grand piano represents one of the most extraordinary instruments ever to grace Piano Gallery's showroom. This fully restored 6'10" grand piano comes with a fascinating history as told by master restorer Helmut Koweleski, who shared that this instrument was reportedly one of only six pianos constructed for the World's Fair exhibition in the 1800s, allegedly commissioned by Franz Ferdinand himself. Beyond its museum-quality restoration, this instrument delivers exceptional tonal richness and historical significance that makes it perfect for discerning collectors and professional musicians alike.
Product Overview
This magnificent Genossenschaft grand piano showcases the pinnacle of 19th-century German piano craftsmanship, featuring a meticulously restored walnut cabinet with ornate Victorian-era carved details and premium exotic wood finishes applied using modern Schimmel manufacturing techniques. The instrument underwent complete restoration by European Piano Restoration within the renowned Schimmel facility, where master craftsman Helmut Koweleski applied decades of manufacturing expertise to preserve its original character while enhancing its performance capabilities.
The piano's sound characteristics embody the warm, singing tone quality that defined the golden age of piano making, with a balanced dynamic range that responds beautifully to both delicate pianissimo passages and powerful fortissimo expressions. Advanced restoration techniques included installation of a new German Renner action system, ensuring precise key response and consistent touch weight across all 88 keys, while the original soundboard was carefully preserved and repaired to maintain the instrument's authentic vintage voice and historical integrity.
Ideal For
- Antique collectors drawn to instruments with compelling historical narratives and exceptional craftsmanship
- High-end hotels and luxury lodges requiring distinctive centerpiece instruments for elegant entertainment spaces
- Professional musicians and recording artists who demand exceptional tonal quality and historical authenticity
- Music educators and institutions looking to inspire students with instruments of significant cultural importance
- Serious pianists who appreciate the unique sound characteristics of 19th-century German piano construction
Key Features
Fascinating Historical Story
According to master restorer Helmut Koweleski of European Piano Restoration, this Genossenschaft grand piano has a remarkable backstory as reportedly one of six instruments specifically constructed for World's Fair exhibition in the 1800s, said to have been commissioned by Franz Ferdinand.
Master-Level Restoration by European Piano Restoration
Complete restoration performed within the Schimmel manufacturing facility by Helmut Koweleski, utilizing both traditional craftsmanship techniques and modern precision manufacturing to achieve museum-quality results while preserving original character.
German Renner Action System
Features a completely new German Renner action mechanism, providing precise key response, consistent touch weight, and exceptional dynamic control that meets the demands of professional performance and recording applications.
Preserved Original Soundboard
The original 1880's soundboard was carefully preserved and expertly repaired rather than replaced, maintaining the authentic vintage voice and tonal characteristics that define this instrument's unique sound signature.'s
Exotic Wood Cabinet Restoration
The ornate Victorian cabinet underwent complete restoration using Schimmel's exotic wood selection and modern finishing techniques, resulting in a stunning visual presentation that complements the instrument's exceptional musical qualities.
What's Included
- Fully restored 1880's Genossenschaft 6'10" grand piano
- Matching ornate padded bench.
- Ask us about our white glove delivery service for this museum-quality instrument
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Grand Piano |
| Size | 6'10" (82 inches) |
| Year | 1880's |
| Finish | Restored walnut with exotic wood accents |
| Soundboard | Original spruce, preserved and restored |
| Action | New German Renner action system |
| Keys | 88 keys, ebony and ivory restoration |
| Pedals | Ttwo pedals (soft, sustain) |
| Strings | Restored original bass strings, new treble strings |
| Historical Significance | Reportedly one of six World's Fair exhibition pianos according to restorer Helmut Koweleski |
| Restoration | Complete restoration by European Piano Restoration at Schimmel facility |
Experience This Historic Grand Piano Today
Visit Piano Gallery in Idaho Falls to experience this extraordinary piece of musical history firsthand and discover why vintage restored grand pianos represent the ultimate combination of artistic heritage and musical excellence. Our knowledgeable staff can provide detailed information about the instrument's provenance and restoration process, ensuring you understand the full significance of this remarkable acquisition. Contact us today to schedule a private viewing of this one-of-a-kind Genossenschaft grand piano.
