Serial numbers: 18342 & 8342. This superior quality piano was manufactured in Germany, between the years of 1905-1909.
As one can see in the photos, the piano structure was previously modernised features and decorations were removed to make the piano more suitable for the market in the mid-1900’s. However, the internal workings are that of the esteemed Carl Ecke make and proper, pre-war German quality of sound and feel! It is also a tall piano that would make a statement in any home. The walnut casing finish was not great, so Eshelby Pianos repainted it!
The tone is sublime, as only a pre-war German piano can produce this level of warmth and depth of sound! Given the tall structure of the piano, its strings are longer than on many grands! The piano has 88 keys, retaining their original beautiful ivory naturals, with a very nicely balanced medium touch weight, and 2 pedals. The dimensions of this piano are a height of 138 cm, width of 157 cm and a depth of 69 cm.
The JAE 460 Carl Ecke upright pianoforte with stool is available for hire and sale.
Hire price: launch charge of R 2 350.00 and monthly charge of R 600.00.
Sale price: R 42 500.00 (incl. VAT).
The following photographs show the piano before it was painted.
Here is some more information about modernised pianos…
Referred to as ‘English Reconditions’, there was a period where tradesmen altered the original outer structures of pianos, adjusting the appearance of the pianos to adapt to current demand. The pianos were thus rebuilt and ‘modernised’. Changes included modification of the panel and overall shape; removal of mouldings and decoration and even, sometimes, the piano legs were changed. The most common and obvious change was usually with the top panel.
Other examples of modernised pianos are the JAE 117 George Rogers Upright Piano, DE 275 Fritz Kuhla Upright Piano and DE 530 Kellman Upright Piano