Cragside piano goes (safely) under the hammer
National Trust to sell the Northumberland property's historic piano. Tony Henderson reports
A noteworthy item from a Northumberland historic house is being sold by the National Trust.
A satinwood boudoir grand piano by world-famous makers J. B. Blüthner of Leipzig has been consigned for sale on behalf of the Trust in Newcastle auctioneers Anderson & Garland’s Country House & Fine Interiors event on September 25.
The piano carries an estimate of £3,000 to £5,000 and has been previously housed and displayed at Cragside House after being gifted to the Trust in the 1980s.
“Cragside is one of Britain’s most celebrated Victorian country homes and the piano represents not only a fine example of Blüthner craftsmanship but also a link to the history and legacy of one of the North East’s most important houses,” said an Anderson & Garland spokesman.
“The upcoming auction provides collectors and enthusiasts with a rare opportunity to acquire an instrument of both musical and historical significance, while supporting the important ongoing work of the National Trust.”
Nigel Smith, head of the music department at Anderson & Garland, said: “This piano is more than just an instrument, it is a piece of history that has been striking the right note at Cragside.
“Blüthners were the choice of great musicians across Europe, and it is wonderful to give this one an encore in the saleroom. We hope it will find a new stage where it can continue to be admired and enjoyed.”