Nowy, Hautrive

Hautrive baby grand piano — 130 cm (serial no. 23393)

An exceptionally compact Belgian grand by Hautrive of Brussels, serial number 23393, dating from the late 1940s (built 1947). At approximately 130 cm in length, this instrument is among the smallest traditional grand pianos ever made, offering the playing characteristics of a horizontal action instrument in a minimal footprint.

The case is finished in dark mahogany and has received a careful hand French polish that emphasizes the wood’s depth and figure. The restrained post‑war design and well-proportioned cabinet give the piano an elegant yet unobtrusive appearance suitable for refined interiors where space is limited.

The original ivory keyboard has been preserved, contributing to the piano’s historical character and tactile response. Despite its modest dimensions, the instrument retains the true acoustic grand action and tonal behavior that distinguish a grand from an upright.

A brief note on provenance: Hautrive was established in Schaerbeek, Brussels, by Edmond Hautrive in 1887 and became known for both uprights and grands. In the 1930s the firm produced larger concert instruments and supplied pianos to respected Belgian institutions, including the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel and the NIR broadcasting studios at Flagey.

Specifications

- Maker: Hautrive
- Origin: Brussels, Belgium
- Serial number: 23393
- Period: late 1940s (built 1947)
- Type: baby grand piano
- Length: approx. 130 cm
- Cabinet: dark mahogany
- Finish: traditional hand French polish
- Keys: original ivory (85 keys)
- Pedals: 2
- Construction: traditional acoustic grand (horizontal action)

This Hautrive is a rare example of Belgian piano making that combines compact engineering with fine cabinetmaking. It is offered as a genuine small grand suitable for players and collectors seeking authentic grand action and period character.

Services and sale conditions: no transport or tuning is included with the sale; the price is non-negotiable. For further details and photographs, please consult the listing.