Cabinet piano Michael Weis, E 1584

The instrument is owned by the National Museum – Czech Museum of Music, Prague. This is a rare instrument of the Prague builder of German origin Michael Weis (Johan Michael Weiss, also Weis, Weisz, Weiß), born in 1764 in Pfranfeld, died on March 27, 1838 in Prague.

Dating: probably 1813-1820, signed Mich. Weis Prague.

Tone range: F1- f4 – six octaves.

Dimensions: instrument – 88.5 x 121.5 x 25 cm, instrument including legs and cabinet – 88.5 x 121.5 x 105 cm.

Previous known restoration interventions: minimal, not documented.

Period of restoration works: 09/1998 – 05/1999. Restored for the exhibition „300 years with the piano“ under the auspices of UNESCO.

The concept of the restoration: The investor wanted to bring the instrument into playable condition. Therefore, after initial research and consultation, restoration of the instrument started. The instrument has been sensitively restored and brought into playable condition (it can also be used for concert playing) while maintaining its integrity and authenticity – as many original parts as possible have been preserved, leaving patina and traces of use and subsequent modifications. The instrument does not bear the signs of contemporary intervention – restoration, and gives the impression that it has been preserved in this condition and form.

For further information please see CZ version.