It was not in the league of the Sneltzer with a case by Robert Adam that now resides in the National Museum of Wales following its sale at Bonhams in 1994 for a premium-inclusive £274,000. However, it was a far more accessible object both in terms of size - 3ft 4in wide by 7ft 8in high (1.02 x 2.4m) - and estimate, £2000-£4000.
It was made by John Sneltzer in 1754 for the chapel of Mersham Le Hatch, Kent, home to the Knatchbull family since 1486, and was fully signed and dated to a plaque above the 31 ivory keys. The mahogany case features three arched inlaid fiddle-back panels, with arcaded boxwood and ebony strung arches.
Such a rarity pulled a surprising number of enthusiasts out of the woodwork. One of them, a local gentleman bidding sight unseen, was happy to part with £19,000.
