Clocks & Music
1937 Art Deco Wurlitzer Butterfly Baby Grand Piano for Sale, Style 1411
1937 Art Deco Wurlitzer Butterfly Baby Grand Piano for Sale, Style 1411
Few American pianos express the glamour and ambition of the late Art Deco period as boldly as this 1937 Wurlitzer Butterfly Baby Grand Piano, Style 1411. Widely regarded as one of the most visually dramatic piano designs of its era, this exceptional 88 key Deluxe model features the celebrated winged case form that has made the Butterfly one of the most sought after innovations in piano history. The sculptural body is rich with streamline character, from its flowing silhouette to the quartet of raised banding around the case that emphasizes movement and modernity.
Particularly striking is the beautifully designed woodwork behind the pedals, where Wurlitzer introduced crisp Deco detailing that reinforces the piano’s unmistakable period identity. The case displays spectacular mahogany with deep warmth, handsome grain, and a rich surface that gives the instrument remarkable presence even before a note is played.
The design becomes even more impressive when the winged lids are opened, revealing a secondary removable inner lid with decorative cutouts that allow the sound to project beautifully from the cabinet. A large F hole, reminiscent of a violin, joins multiple radial sound slots along the outer edge, creating both visual drama and an acoustic function unique to this celebrated model. Of the Butterfly pianos, the Style 1411 is considered the finest and most professional version, built with the full standard 88 key keyboard rather than the smaller 73 key format also offered in other period case styles. Although no one knows the exact production number, it is believed that approximately 75 of these were manufactured in 1937, making surviving examples especially desirable. Serial number 176376 dates this piano to approximately 1937.
Adding to its appeal, this piano comes from the family of the original owner, where it was cared for throughout its entire life. That continuity of ownership helps explain both its condition and the evident pride with which it was maintained. The piano has been recently tuned and remains in excellent working order. It has also benefited from professional technician care, with the soundboard maintained, restringing completed, and adjustments attended to as indicated by its most recent service. All of the keys are in great original condition no cracks on the keys. This is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic American Art Deco piano designs, a superb combination of sculptural beauty, musical quality, and genuine period elegance, ready to be enjoyed for generations to come.
Developed in a time of great innovation in art, design, and music the Butterfly Piano by Rudolph Wurlitzer is an example of a perfect piece of both form and function.
