Sebastian Erard Harp

[novicegirl]

Hello

I am wondering if someone can point me in the right direction to get an appraisal for a harp our family has inherited. I am attaching photos. We are in NJ, and the history I have been told is that my great grandfather made and repaired harps in Philadelpia ( I have a news paper write up about him that is framed and can also upload this article into the forum). My understanding is that this harp was gifted to him and not one of the harp’s he made. I am wondering if it is authentic and if so, the value of it. Sadly, we did not take good care of it in terms of preserving it. Nonetheless, any insight is appreciated.

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[brian-noel]

This appears to be a single action Erard harp, probably from the late 1700s. Erard was a preeminent harp maker of the time https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S%C3%A9bastien_%C3%89rard . The instrument appears to be in need of major repairs, and even after doing so, I believe it would likely only be functional as a museum piece. Howard Bryan in Virginia would be a good place to start your inquiry https://www.oldharpsmadeyoung.com/ , and Carl Swanson in Boston may have some sage advice for you as well: https://www.swansonharp.com/

• This reply was modified 1 month, 2 weeks ago by daniellekuntz.
• This reply was modified 1 month, 2 weeks ago by brian-noel.
• This reply was modified 1 month, 2 weeks ago by brian-noel.
• This reply was modified 1 month, 2 weeks ago by brian-noel.

[novicegirl]

Thank you so much for your response and recommendations!

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