An Irish George IV Giltwood and Painted Fruitwood Harp by John Egan Dublin, CIrca 1825

Inscribed No 2009 John Egan 30 Dawson S^t Dublin/ Harp Maker by Authority of the ROYAL WARRANT to His Most Gracious Majesty George IV^th & Royal Family

.Overall good restored condition; the fluted column, base, and capital regilded; the back of the sounding board most probably with refreshment to decoration; all pedals appear to be intact, however, we cannot guarantee that the pedals work and would recommend that a professional harp restorer examine the piece to check its ability to function.
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.

John Egan was harp maker  and inovator inventing the ‘Royal Portable’ harp around 1819.  These harps combined the traditional Irish model with a rounded sound board,  the construction and mechanism of Erard pedal harps and dital button opposed to pedals found on harp lutes.  Eagan was recorded at 30 Dawson Street from 1815 until 1835.  The present harp precedes the ‘Royal Portable’ harp and makes use of the Erard pedal mechanism.  During the 19^th century harp playing in Ireland enjoyed a revival, harp playing societies being established in Belfast in 1809 and in Dublin in 1810.