Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a beautiful K. Kawai GE-1 baby grand piano finished in a striking polished ebony casing, complete with its matching bench. Measuring approximately 5'1" in length, this model is celebrated for delivering a rich, resonant tone and responsive touch within a space-saving footprint.
Story
In 1993, this piano was completed in Hamamatsu, Japan, a city famous for musical innovation. Kawai's master craftsmen engineered this model to bring the majestic, complex voice of a concert grand into the intimate space of a family home.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1927 by Koichi Kawai, the company revolutionized piano making by blending traditional Japanese woodworking with modern materials science. Koichi was the first in Japan to design and build a complete piano action, earning him prestigious imperial honors.
Condition & Value
The exterior polished ebony finish appears to be in very good cosmetic condition with minor surface dust and light reflections. The interior plate, tuning pins, and strings show no obvious signs of rust or neglect, though a professional technician's inspection of the soundboard, pinblock, and action is recommended.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.