A piano with a fascinating and fun ‘Royal Romantic’ provenance
Well-known Biographer Lindy Woodhead (whose book on Harry Gordon Selfridge was adapted by ITV as Mr Selfridge) is selling the piano she bought from her friend Roddy Llewellyn in the early 1980’s. The Bechstein upright, dated 1890, was manufactured for Royal Warrant Holders Mitchell & Briggs, of Briggate, Leeds. In fine condition, and very well maintained, the piano case is Rosewood, inlaid with charming marquetry.
Lindy explains: ‘There is a wonderfully romantic back story attached to the piano because it was a gift to Roddy (Sir Roderic Llewellyn) from his loving friend, HRH The Princess Margaret during their well-charted relationship following their first meeting in 1973 throughout the rest of the decade’.
The Princess – herself a highly accomplished pianist and keen singer – loved nothing better than playing and performing at parties, often belting out her favourite ‘Chattanooga Choo Choo’. A keen pianist himself, Roddy (who later tried his hand at becoming a professional pop-singer) and the Princess often played duets – although one observer of their performances noted: ‘Princess Margaret was quite bossy with Roddy about timing – she was very particular!’
Princess Margaret and Roddy parted in the early 1980’s, remaining good friends until her death. When he subsequently met and married fashion designer Tania Soskin, the piano formed part of their need to edit joint possessions and went on loan to a mutual friend before being bought by Lindy who strived – but sadly failed – to master the keyboard. She is now parting with the piano and hopes the new owners will enjoy playing with as much gusto as Princess Margaret did. ‘It really does deserve to be heard at many more marvellous, fun and fashionable parties – the Princess and Roddy had a lot of fun and he made her very happy at a difficult time in her life’, Lindy says as her piece of unique ‘Royal and romantic’ history is consigned to Piano Auctions for their forthcoming summer sale.
Auction Estimate £5,000-7,000
