The piano in Jane Austin's world

I was asked by one of the Sleepy Mommies to contribute something about the piano that would have been in use in Jane Austin's time for the Pride and Prejudice discussion group. No problem, I glibly replied, but then I realized, oops! I think I have the wrong version of the piano in mind. I was thinking about a rectangular instrument that is known as combining the best elements of the grand and the upright, but with tuning difficulties, but now I am not too sure. I don't want to duck the question, so I sent an email to a friend who is big on that period and knows instruments. I am awaiting a response.

My music library is pretty good, but tends towards other periods and tends away from parlor music (these instruments were generally not used for professional performance), so I have come up with nothing in my own library. Since I have been tremendously busy, I have not had time to go to the wonderful music library at UC Berkeley.

As soon as I get some information I will post it.