Vintage Pianos
1895 - 1907

A true Artistic Case is a rare beast to find. Each was made to order, a one of a kind creation. Famous furniture makers (such as Greene & Greene and Stickley) would be brought a single piano from an elite company such as Baldwin or Emerson. They would then reconstruct the case to their own design whims. Other furniture creators would sometimes carve every surface of the body. The Art Cases that have survived are mainly found as specimens in museums.  

Vintage upright pianos found on this page do not technically fall into the Artistic Case category, but because they have so many lavish design elements, they can be seen as cousins of this elite group.  

On these adorned pianos, there are always turned columns, exquisite decorations and embellished architectural panels of great intricacy. A combination of classical themes and various historical motifs were utilized in the delicate moldings, carved pilasters and solid trusses. You might see carved flowers, wreaths, torches, flying or swimming mythological beasts, or fancy ladies.

 < A Corinthian capital is just part of this elaborate piano named Bush and Lane.

A fancy piano leg, typical of the period.

Steinway vintage piano cases with grace and simplicity.

An elaborate piano of highly decorated mahogany.

This carved piano leg demonstrates stellar craftsmanship.

This fancy piano has a most unusual carved cheek.