Description

Solid silver Louis Lot Barat era flute

This solid silver Louis Lot flute was made right at the beginning of the Émile BARAT (1846-1918) ownership. Barat was born in Joigny, France in 1846. He ran a music shop in Paris from 1874 until 1889. He took over the Lot company in 1889 and flute production was excellent. In 1904, he sold it to Ernest Henri CHAMBILLE (1858-1922).

This is the Maison Lot’s model 5, solid silver C-foot flute.

We can see that the flute was engraved at the side of the head joint with its owner’s name… a certain A. Heurtard. By consulting the Louis Lot company journals, we see two entries concerning serial number 4794. The first was its purchase, noted on 30 September 1889 by Mr A Heurtard who lived in Gisors in the department of Eure, Normandy. Two years later, in September 1891, Madame Heurtard is in Paris to have the flute serviced.

The flute has hallmarks on the rings, mechanism and lip-plate. It features seamed tubing, soldered tone-holes, open-hole, pointed-arm keys and inline G. The teardrop shaped D-sharp key is beautifully formed, with a mechanism that exemplifies elegance and precision. The flute is in its original condition, with no alterations, shortenings or changes to its construction. The head joint crown is lovely. The relatively small embouchure measures 10.05 x 11.75 mm.

The instrument is in great playing condition and in general shows very little wear. The pads were replaced with new ones. The soldered chimneys are sharp and a delight to behold. It plays at a=440 Hz fully inserted.  It’s a lovey player in near perfect condition, offering a rich, warm, clear and magically French sound.