Discover Prince Albert’s passion for the work of Raphael
Discover Prince Albert’s passion for the work of Raphael
Tulipwood, gilt bronze, porcelain, steel | 97.7 x 143.0 x 247.0 cm (whole object) | RCIN 41322
Music-making was very important to the royal couple, who would often play the piano and sing together in the evenings. The case of this piano incorporates nine Berlin porcelain plaques reproducing Old Master paintings. Four of the paintings were then attributed to Raphael; each of the other five plaques reproduce works by different artists. When the piano was exhibited at the Paris Industrial Exhibition of 1849, the accompanying catalogue stated that it had been made by Erard to Albert’s design.