Usado, Gaveau, I (1/4)

A Gaveau Baby Grand Piano in Art Deco Splendour (France, 1934)
This exceptional Gaveau baby grand piano was crafted in France in 1934, at the very height of the Art Deco era—a period defined by elegance, innovation, and uncompromising craftsmanship. Compact in size yet rich in presence, this instrument perfectly embodies the refined luxury and architectural clarity that made French piano making world-renowned.
Gaveau, one of the most prestigious Parisian piano manufacturers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was celebrated for its rigorous construction standards and exclusive use of premium materials. This piano is no exception: every element reflects the brand’s dedication to tonal depth, durability, and aesthetic distinction.
The cabinet was designed by the renowned Parisian designer Dominique, a leading figure of Art Deco furniture design. His unmistakable style—marked by balanced proportions, subtle geometry, and restrained sophistication—gives this piano a sculptural quality that transcends its function as a musical instrument. During its recent and thorough restoration, the case was meticulously hand-polished in the atelier, reviving its original finish and resulting in a warm, natural, and organic appearance that enhances the character of the wood and the purity of the design.
Cabinet executed in finely selected walnut veneer, contrasted with sycamore maple interior elements. The case features a traditional hand-applied French polish, highlighting the natural depth and elegance of the woods in true Art Deco fashion.

The technical restoration was carried out with equal care and expertise. New strings and tuning pins were installed, restoring structural reliability and tuning stability. Despite the modest dimensions of its soundboard and cabinet, the piano now delivers a surprisingly full, powerful, and expressive tone—clear in articulation, rich in color, and well balanced across the registers. It is a compelling example of how intelligent design and masterful craftsmanship can defy physical scale.
This Gaveau baby grand is more than an instrument: it is a piece of musical and decorative history, equally at home in an elegant interior, a design-conscious space, or the hands of a discerning pianist who values both sound and heritage.