A William IV burr-maple and parcel-gilt double-action Grecian harp by Jacob and James Erat circa 1835-40

the 43-string double-action harp with possibly the original soundboard painted with classical foliage, flowers and medalions; fluted pillar decorated with acanthus leaves and crowned with caryatids and lyre playing mermen; pedal box mounted with winged maidens playing lyres, brass mechanism plate engraved J & J Erat Patent Harp Manufacturers, 23 Berners Street, London.



No. 2059.

restored condition with restorations to painted decoration throughout, the sound board possibly original and appearing to retain some of its original painted decoration, gilding later, shrinkage cracks to sound board, age cracks to frame, chips, restorations and repairs to composition elements, age cracks to bottom right of sound board; Sotheby's does not guarantee the action and recommends contacting a harp specialist.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Jacob Erat worked in the Erard factory as foreman in the late 18^th century and set up on his own business at 100 Wardour Street, London, and moved to larger premises at 23 Berners Street in 1817.  Following Jacob Erat's death in 1821 his sons took over the business and continued making harps until 1858.

Sotheby's would like to thank the harp specialist Mike Baldwin whose groundbreaking discoveries on the firm of Erat and forthcoming thesis were used for this footnote.