"There are two pianofortes in the gallery..[one] the property of Mr. Alma-Tadema, who designed it, is a stable massive structure of polished oak, brass, and ivory, with well proportioned but mechanical lines and curves. The white inner surface of the lid is inscribed with the autographs of more or less distinguished persons who have used the instrument. The bench is a far more humane piece of furniture than the piano, which suggests an expensive American "casket" (coffin). It is difficult to contemplate it for five minutes without looking about for a heavy woodchopper."
(Shaw's Music, Volume I, 1876 - 1890)