From the owner:

     Purchased in the 1980s, restored c. 1987 by Stewart Pollens (The Met Museum, NYC). Currently not playable; detached hammers included with instrument. Legs replaced at some point, mid-1800s. Owner looking to sell quickly, preferably in the Boston-area, but open to inquiries from further afield.

Details on the maker: McDonnell, Daniel

     Harpsichord and piano maker of Dublin, fl.1786–1815. McDonnell’s ancestry and training are unknown, although the following addresses have been identified: 3 South Anne Street (c1786); 26 Fleet Street (1793–1800); 28 Fleet Street (1801–3); and 12 Anglesea Street (1804–15). A local newspaper notice provides the following information:

            Saunders’s News-Letter (22 August 1786):

                 "McDONNELL, / Harpsicord and Piano Forte Maker, / No.3, South Anne-street, /

                 MOST respectfully informs the Nobility and Gentry, that he has for Sale, Piano

                 Fortes, on the newest and most approved Construction and finest Tones. He takes

                 this Opportunity of returning his grateful Acknowledgments to the Nobility and

                 Gentry that have honoured him with their Commands.— N.B. Harpsicords and

                 Pianos Forts (sic) repaired and tuned."