LOT #61003 |
Sold on Jun 5, 2025 for: Not Sold
A Napoleon III Polychrome Painted and Satinwood Grand Piano with Associated Bench, Paris, 1870-1875. Marks: PLEYEL. ...
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Description
A Napoleon III Polychrome Painted and Satinwood Grand Piano with Associated Bench, Paris, 1870-1875Marks: PLEYEL
Signed: Leo Huillard
Serial #56829
41 x 57-1/2 x 84-3/4 inches (104.1 x 146.1 x 215.3 cm)
Built by Pleyel in the early 1870s (serial no. 56829), this grand piano was later updated in the 1920s (second serial no. 171180), likely during a mechanical refurbishment. At that time, the satinwood case was richly polychromed and signed by Leo Huillard, a Paris-based decorative painter.
Another signed Huillard piano-a Louis XVI-style Pleyel from circa 1925-is the only other documented example (David Winston Collection, Dreweatts, 2021). The present instrument is unique in combining a 19th-century build with Huillard's early 20th-century artistry.
Family tradition holds that the piano was once owned by the Dolly Sisters, famed performers and collectors active in 1920s Paris and New York.
With its layered provenance and rare dual attribution, the piano stands as both a superbly crafted instrument and a singular decorative collaboration between Pleyel and Huillard.
Condition Report*:
The grand piano with an area of restoration to L-shaped crack to the reverse with overpaint visible; another area of restoration parallel to large crack also with overpaint. Scattered areas of overpaint, specially to front side's upper edges. Losses to gilt and paint; scattered areas with exposed gesso from mid-region to legs. Splits, specially to cover consistent with nature of the material. Loss to one key note's lower body. The reupholstered bench with areas of threadbare and fading; loose threads to corners. Losses to gilt and paint; areas of exposed gesso. Overall wear consistent with age, use, and display. Heritage does not guarantee the working order or overall completeness of mechanisms.
*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders.
Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation,
warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report.
Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500.
Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames.
All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.Auction Info
2025 June 5 Furniture & Decorative Arts Signature® Auction #8205 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
June, 2025
5th
Thursday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 0
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
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