$173,000
circa 1900 in the Louis XV taste, having a pierced fretwork music rack and foliate scroll mounts throughout, the case inlaid to show bouquets of flowers and raised on three cabriole legs headed by gilt bronze figures of ladies playing the violin, lute and harp, the legs ending in paw feet set on casters, model no. 4A, numbered 55548. Height 41 x width 73 x length 100 inches. Property from the Estate of Beverlee Soloff Shere, Bal Harbour, Florida Provenance: Information obtained from C. Bechstein's record archives indicates that the piano was shipped from Berlin to the firm's London branch on May 31, 1901. Two keys strike but do not return easily; all other keys strike and return smoothly. Soundboard has several very tight hairline cracks. Sound overall is still clear and powerful. Piano has not been inspected by a piano technician. The case in good condition overall, with small veneer damages, tight age cracks, scuffs and small discolorations consistent with age. One side is faded from sunlight exposure. Bronze figures with duller patina; some of their instruments are missing strings or have loosened/fraying strings. Lid with what appear to be minor moisture or humidity damages at the center. Marquetry in good condition overall. Additional photos available upon request.
Auctioneer:
Leslie Hindman Auctioneers
Date:
2016-07-18
