Piano-forte

"Piano-fortes are the forerunners of modern pianos. The piano-forte is a straight-strung instrument without a frame. They were made from around 1780 when the principles behind the piano were invented, up until around 1880 when the design of the piano blossomed with the arrival of cast-iron frames and cross-stringing.
Collection du Musée de la Musique © Cité de la musique – Photo : Jean Marc Anglès"