This new Mussorgsky-themed Steinway piano is utterly stunning to look at

1. Steinway's 'Pictures at an Exhibition' piano

More than four years in the making, 'Pictures at an Exhibition' is the first Steinway & Sons piano inspired by a musical composition. Photo: Steinway

2. Steinway's 'Pictures at an Exhibition' piano

Photo: Steinway

3. Steinway's 'Pictures at an Exhibition' piano

The case and lid are decorated with images of figures from Russian musical history and folklore, with oil paintsings on both sides of the lid. Photo: Steinway

4. Steinway's 'Pictures at an Exhibition' piano

Photo: Steinway

5. Steinway's 'Pictures at an Exhibition' piano

The piano's designer, Paul Wyse, commented: "I wanted to use the Steinway piano to tell a story, not just of Mussorgsky’s piano suite, but of everything surrounding it…. For me it’s about capturing the mystery of the Russian soul, and all its facets; fairy tale, legend, history, and fascinating politics all come together in a dramatic and surprising way." Photo: Steinway

6. Steinway's 'Pictures at an Exhibition' piano

Photo: Steinway

7. Steinway's 'Pictures at an Exhibition' piano

Ron Losby, CEO of Steinway, said: "It is difficult to express the experience of not just seeing the visual art on the piano, but of hearing the unmistakable sound of a Steinway Model D emanate from it. When I see the result of Paul’s work combined with the impeccable work of our Steinway craftspeople…I’m very proud of what they have created." Photo: Steinway