136: A RARE KANSAS INVENTED GIRAFFE PIANO 'THE DOLCETTE'

This version of the giraffe piano, or upright piano, was designed and manufactured by Peter Bissing of Topeka, Kansas. According to the Kansas Historical Society, "By simply pressing a key or depressing one of the foot pedals, the musician could cause the instrument to sound like a mandolin, the Italian harp, or chimes." They acquired one of these instruments in 1925, which they believe to be one of only five known. This model has a maple case and hammers that strike strings just as a piano would do. The front is a cloth covered piece of cardboard in this instance. Measures 72.25 x 41.5 x 19 inches.
A metal plate has been bolted at the top left side.
$400 - $800