Well, this is Steingraeber's opus one, completed in 1852. The piano is virtually all original and in remarkable shape. It has leather hammers!
I have played this piano and it is fascinating. Definitely for me, one of the best pianos of this period that I have played, and it is in such amazing condition.

Has the piano been rebuilt to any extent?

Do you think that soundwise it could pass for a contemporary piano? To my untrained ears it sounds strikingly modern although it is hard for me to hear it with the cello playing. In what ways do you think it sounds different from contemporary pianos?

It certainly sounds much better than any of the 19th century pianos I heard recently at the Frederick Collection in Massachusetts.

The piano is in remarkable all original condition. I think maybe a couple of strings have been replaced and that is about it.
It cannot pass for a modern piano, but it sounds a lot more modern than most from that period.

Great video -- thanks for posting it, Keith.

I'd love to hear Chopin on that piano.

Thanks for posting this - it is a treat to hear and see this instrument.

Well... it ain't no Steinlager, that is for sure.

I love your write-ups but I'm really not a fan of your teaser headlines. This should read Steingraeber serial number one. Otherwise this looks like just another dealer promotion/flamefest.

Seriously, that was beautifully played and a well done video as well, Keith.

You mentioned that you've played this piano. Do you know much about its design? The leather hammers would have been normal for a Viennese action. Does this piano have a Viennese action (Steingraeber might prefer to call it a German action?)

It might be similar to the Erard-Herz action (this followed more of the English design) that made such a big splash in 1850 or so, but I kind of doubt it.

I would love to hear more. maybe a quick email to Udo is in order.

PS - it still ain't no Steinlager.

I'll drink to that!

Of course very interesting piano, as others have said.

But also a very good recording. What did you use to record it?

Sorry Numerian,
I just couldn't resist. I like to think that most of the folks here have a good sense of humor, and most are pretty bright.
One would have to be an idiot to promote their product here as #1, so I am really also poking fun at myself with this thread's title.