A French 'Adam' style polychrome painted, satinwood, ivory and ebony grand piano, the movement by Erard, Paris, the decoration in the manner of Angelica Kauffmann circa 1902

the case decorated with roundels and rectangular panels in the style of Angelica Kauffman, with reserves with musical trophies, drapery, husk and ribbon-tied laurel swags on square tapering legs joined by shaped stretchers, the case signed Erard Paris, numbered 83837,  and signed Seb. & P Erard 13 & 21 rue du Huit, Paris and also  stamped ML

In overall good conserved condition. A rare piece.Colour slightly darker and with more contrast and much more attractive than in the catalogue photograph.The decoration is in very good order with some old minor marks, chips and scratches. There are two longer scratches on the lid and inside the lid with some very minor chips to the veneer. Block missing on the inside of the rear left leg and some minor sections of moulding are missing which can easily be restored and there is an approx. 3cm section of moulding chipped off on the left border of the lid. The middle right leg is affixed slightly at an angle but this does not detract from the piece Some construction cracks at some of the joints where the stiles meet the sides and one shows white filler but these can easily be filled or left. Very minor chips and losses to the veneer which can easily be restored and are not too noticeable. The condition of the movement is not guaranteed and is sold as seen. The exterior of the keyboard is signed A. Russell and dated MDCCCCIII for 1903 and J. Herrmann pinx.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Comparative Literature:
G.S.Gadd, The British Art Piano and Piano Design, Vol. I, Middlesex, 2006. pp. 223-224.

The case is in the so-called 'Adam style' derived from such sources as the Osterley Park commission of the early 1770's which influenced British furniture designers throughout the last quarter of the 19th and early 20th century. The tapering legs, decoration, pendant husks and ovals in imitation of Roman cameos is testimony to that influence. The decoration is undoubtedly in the style of Angelica Kauffmann who was one of the founding members of the Royal Academy and there are several pianos recorded in 'the style of Kauffmann'.