Serial number: 5383. This piano was manufactured by the Ritter family in Halle, Germany between the years of 1900 and 1905, likely in 1904. Although the name of the piano carries Carl Richard Ritter’s name, it would have been manufactured by his two sons and son-in-law who had taken over the running of the factory in 1902.
This is an example of a small piano manufacturer whose name is not generally well known today, however, the family-run company started to make their mark in Europe in the early 1900’s, receiving high awards for their pianos until the company was limited due to WW1 and then WW2. One can view some their awards stated on the piano frame in the photograph below. Although there are not many of these pianos about, their quality compares and exceeds most. This is why one cannot be brand conscious when looking for pianos.
The piano exhibits the art nouveau, antique style, in structure and adornments. The mixed walnut casing, both burr and straight grained walnut, is contrasted and highlighted by the frames. The corners of the top front panel frame add volume, depth and refinement, more subtly shown on the bottom panel frame. Finishes like carved lines on the front sides of the piano from the top and into the legs as well as below the keyboard, add an elegant touch. The best and most sophisticated part shown with the legs of the piano. This is not the quick and easy cut out with modern tools. One has to recognise the effort and expertise of a proper artisan to achieve this sort of fretwork, especially in the early 1900’s. It is a beauty!
The piano has typical big German piano tone and power, which has quite an unusual liveliness to it, without the very mellow tone sometimes regarded as stifled. The piano has 85 keys, with a lighter touch weight, and 2 pedals. Its ivory-clad naturals are intact. Its dimensions are a height of 130 cm, a width of 151.5 cm and a depth of 68 cm.
The JAE 11 Rich, C. Ritter, Halle Upright and stool is currently hired out.
