Poul Henningsen
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"PH Upright Piano", Designed 1939, executed by Andreas Christensen, Denmark 1940s.
Lacquered wood, chrome plated metal, top and sides in leather, keys in celluloid and ebony, on wheels, maker's mark Andreas Christensen, height ca 112 cm, length 142 cm, depth 54 cm.
The piano palte with maker's mark Pianots stomme märkt Mécanique Schwander a répétition Etablts J Herrburger Paris, 8480, and dated 17/9 -46.
Wear due to age and use. Keys with some chips.
Saleroom notice
The piano dated the 17th of september -46
Literature
Jørstian, Tina & Munk Nielsen, Poul Erik (ed), 'Tænd!: PH lampens historie', Gyldendal, Copenhagen, 1994, compare p. 165.
More information
Poul Henningsen (1894–1967) was a significant Danish architect and a prominent figure in Danish cultural life. His influence spans generations, and Henningsen is internationally known for his timeless classics in modern design, particularly from the 1920s and 1930s. His furniture design was and still is recognized as groundbreaking, playing an important role in putting Danish design on the global map. However, like many other designers, it was only a matter of time before his creativity was directed towards a new creation - the piano.
In line with Henningsen's innovative design philosophy, his first piano design, the PH Grand Piano from 1931, broke all the rules. With brass legs and a transparent celluloid casing that revealed the piano's mechanics, this was a revolutionary creation for its time. Today, the piece is represented in significant design collections around the world, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
Throughout his career, Henningsen created four piano models: the PH Grand Piano, PH Bow Grand Piano, PH Pianette, and PH Upright Piano. Each piano has a unique design, ranging from modern to futuristic, and they are considered unique artworks that are regarded as classics. Henningsen believed that the piano belonged not only in the concert hall but also in the jazz club or the private home. Therefore, among the four different models, there is a PH Piano that fits perfectly in any environment or interior.
This rare and sought-after example of the PH Upright Piano, designed in 1932 and manufactured by Andreas Christensen in the 1940s, shares many of the characteristic features that define Henningsen's first piano design. It includes the use of lacquered wood, chrome-plated metal, leather details, as well as celluloid and ebony keys, but with the advantage of fitting in smaller rooms and environments. The minimalist design sets it apart from the one typically associated with the traditional piano and represents yet another example of Henningsen's ability to redefine conventions and create timeless works that inspire.
The PH Upright Piano is equally suitable as a musical instrument for the music lover as it is a beautiful artistic piece for the home.