A FINE GILT-BRONZE MOUNTED AMARANTH, KINGWOOD AND SATINE TRELLIS-PARQUETRY GRAND PIANO PARIS, CIRCA 1885-90, THE 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.   

Aquired by Dr. J. T Nieto-Gomez from first owner March 21, 1926

Aquired by current owner from the above February 1, 1957

Overall in very good condition. Tarnishing and dirt to gilt bronze consistent with age and use. Very minor dents to carcass and veneer. Some sun discoloration to hinged lid mechanism. There is some uplifting of veneer around the lid around the lock plate. Please note this lot contains endangered species and CITES permits will be necessary for export. Please contact the department with any questions.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

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.