Erard Empire Grand Piano, Hand Painted & Signed by Pierre Guerin Paris, c. 1920

Description

Erard 6’ Art case grand piano with bench dating to 1920, Paris.
In 1920, this particular instrument was custom ordered by Marthe Yerles and delivered to her retail boutique in Paris according to Erard piano archives. She was a fashion designer and hat maker.  Ms. Yerles then proceeded to hire Ernest Pierre Guerin , a prominent Parisian artist to hand paint and gold leaf the entire instrument to her style and liking. The piano is hand signed by Pierre Guerin to the underside.
This breath taking instrument was recently restored by a 7th generation master piano rebuilder and a renowned European restoration artist and gilder over a period of 2 years.
The interior retains its original soundboard which has been professionally shimmed and refinished. A new pin block , pins and all new strings were installed. The complete action has been reconditioned as well as the felt hammers and new damper felt. The pedals have also been completely restored. The ebony and ivory keys are in near perfect condition.
The cabinet retains all of its original painting with the exception 2 reserves depicting female griffins flanking the left and right side of the music desk.  The rest of the art work has had cleaning and minor touch ups.  The 24k gold gilding on the edges and swan legs was not salvageable.  These areas have new 24k gold leaf gilding. The griffin carved gold gilt bench is not original to this piano but is a stunning statement and a true masterpiece in itself. The piano retains a beautiful tone and an even light touch.
This item ships at 00 for ground floor shipping.