Years ago I played the piano, and worked hard to learn some very complicated classical pieces that I played for my own enjoyment. I haven't had a piano for many years, but recently I bought a spinet style piano from a client and although it is not fancy, I love having a piano again. Now if only my stiff fingers were as happy! ******
With exercises, one day I hope to be able to play well again, though with arthritis I know I will never be terrific - just hope to have fun with it. I would love to get my hands on this piano!
This is the Alma-Tadema Art Case 
Steinway. It took 20 months to build, is all hand carved and inlaid with mother-of-pearl. The painting above the keyboard is "the Wandering Minstrel" by Edward J. Poynter. Above that is an arched brass lyre.
It was decorated by world famous artist Lawrence Alma-Tadema and sold in 1887 for $1,200, but in 1997 it sold in a Christie's auction to the Sterling and Francine Clark 
Art Institute in Williamstown, Massachusetts for $1,200,000!
Pretty good return on investment!
Here is a video of a young fellow playing the Alma-Tadema at the opening of the Tallahassee car museum in 2008. Although it doesn't say so, it is possible that the piano n the video is the reproduction that was made in 2006. The original piano bears the serial number 54,538. The re-creation is numbered 554,538 - exactly 500,000 pianos later than the original.
There are also other art case pianos that are almost as ornate and very beautiful at www.steinway.com, and you can see the beautiful Liberty piano and hear it played at www.libertypiano.com
Susan Neal
Realtor/ Broker
Century 21 Noel David Realty
Full time real estate services in Fair Oaks CA, with friendly professionalism, 30+ years experience.
I work hard to give my buyer or seller a low-stress transaction.
"Happy clients make me happy."
For all your real estate needs or questions, call me at (916)705-8951or visit my website at www.SusanNealFineProperties.com.
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