Usado, Gaveau, III (3/4)

This is the result of a lengthy restoration of a 1926 Gaveau model III bis. This work has kept us busy and enthralled over the last few years.
This is a rare (if not unique) model, entirely painted (in oil), with Louis XV decor.
After the traditional restoration of the harmonic structure (windchest, pegs, strings, gilding of the frame...) of the action (complete relining) and of the keyboard (whitening and polishing of the ivories), we applied the techniques of painting restorers to remove the old opacified varnish, thus uncovering the original colors and reviving them before re-varnishing the whole to give it back the brilliance and patina of its early days. The painting of the large lid, in the spirit of Hubert Robert, proved spectacular after cleaning and restoration. The gilding was done with gold leaf. To carry out this work, we benefited from the enlightened and generous advice and assistance of a Neapolitan painting restorer.
The sound and feel are worthy of her cabinetry, and her antlers are a match for her