The Art Case Collection - Walden Woods
Steinway & Sons Proudly Announces the Sale of this Fine Instrument at $510,000.01
On October 4th at New York Fundraiser for Walden Woods Project
(read the press release)
Walden Woods
By Silas Kopf
Model D
Piano will be auctioned by Christie’s with a Reserve set at $500,000. Absentee, phone (+1 781-259-4700), or bids from the floor will be accepted. A portion of the winning bid (over $218,000) will be tax deductible.
The 9’ Model D “Walden Woods” concert grand piano incorporates exquisite artistry into a musical instrument of unsurpassed quality, resulting in a one-of-a-kind collector’s prize.
The piano’s exterior was designed and crafted by the renowned marquetry artist, Silas Kopf, who utilized more than 20 woods, including historic wood from fallen or pruned trees near Walden Pond. The primary wood is American black walnut, other woods include: ash, beech, black birch, black oak, chestnut and elm. The decorative rim features 11 plaques bringing to life the philosophies of nature conservation and enchanting imagery of flora and fauna, 10 depicting animals and plant life, and one a portrait of Henry David Thoreau, whose philosophical words wrap around the rim of the piano case, marking it as a testament to living in harmony with nature.
The plate of the piano has been signed, and the piano has been played, by an extraordinary group of artists including Elton John, Emanuel Ax, Dave Brubeck, Herbie Hancock, Bruce Hornsby, Barbara Nissman, Evgeny Kissin and Billy Joel. A generous portion of the proceeds will support the conservation and preservation work of American Forests and the Walden Woods Project. Trees will be planted in National Forests and on public lands in need of reforestation and ecosystem restoration.
Home page and plate photos ©Chris Lee
Silas Kopf
East Hampton, Massachusetts
While in the program of marquetry at the world-renowned Ecole Boulle in Paris, Silas made an indelible impression on his teachers and fellow students. They were impressed with his masterful woodworking skills, his originality, and how quickly he learned the classic techniques of marquetry.
Since his return to the States, Mr. Kopf has frequently had his work exhibited at One Person Shows at the Gallery Henoch in New York City. His work has also been featured at the Museum of Fine Arts in Springfield, Massachusetts, the Yale University Art Gallery, in publications such as American Woodworker and Les Chefs d'oeuvres de la Marquetrie. Walden Woods is a testament to the originality and perfection Silas Kopf brings to every one of his creations.