An Extremely Fine Quality Ormolu-Mounted Amaranth, Kingwood and Satine Trellis-Parquetry Grand Piano circa 1885-90

An Extremely Fine Quality Ormolu-Mounted Amaranth, Kingwood and Satine Trellis-Parquetry Grand Piano circa 1885-90 Movement by Erard, serial number 68250

the lid inlaid with a trellis pattern parquetry and set with an acanthus-cast molded border lifting to reveal a burr maple veneered interior and movement inscribed Par Brevet d'invention, Seb & Pre Erard 13 & 21, rue du Mail, Paris and stenciled 68250 and with a further stamp PINEL, with ivory and ebony keyboard beneath a brass cursive inscription Erard, the case embellished with mounts allegorical of the Triumph of Peace. The lyre shaped pedal stamped 68250, on tapering legs with floral garlands and castors.

Dimension: (H) 35 1/4 in x (W) 54 in x (W) 78 in.

Provenance: Acquired by Dr. J. T Nieto-Gomez from first owner March 21, 1926 Acquired by current owner from the above February 1, 1957

Catalog Notes: With a serial number corresponding with the Parisian workshop's records between 1876 and 1895, the case of the present piano could strongly be attributed to the celebrated ébéniste and bronzier Henry Dasson (d. 1896). The quality and design of the cabinetry and, moreover, the exquisitely rendered fine gilt-bronze mounts decorating the case of this piano, strongly suggest his work. The attribution is strengthened further by the existence of other Erard pianos with cases signed by Dasson and with similar mounts allegorical of the Triumph of Peace.

Sébastien Erard was born in Strasburg in 1752, and established his workshop at 45-47 rue la Boétie in 1777. Following Sebastien's death in 1831, the workshops were taken over by his nephew Pierre Erard who supplied pianos for the most renowned musicians.