Description

Single-keyed flute – Anonymous

Dating back to around 1820, this four-part boxwood flute is believed to have originated in Germany. It is adorned with horn rings and a horn cap. Its single, flat square key is beautifully fashioned from brass.

We will never know whose hands crafted this flute, but it’s wonderful to imagine its story! Its design is a perfect match for the Biedemeier era (1815–1848) – a fascinating early Romantic period where life revolved around family, nature and peaceful art. Instruments like this were the ultimate home entertainment of their day. This flute was truly meant for “house concerts”… intimate musical gatherings, to be played affectionately at home with loved ones and friends alongside a guitar or piano.

The bright boxwood still gleams with a beautiful, clean shine, showing just how lovingly it was cared for over the years. Its oval embouchure is nicely cut, and the flute is in wonderful condition overall. There is just one tiny, historic hairline crack near the horn ring on the upper right-hand joint, which was repaired long ago. It plays at around a=442 Hz and with a little bit of expert attention, could be a professional player.

Our opinion

All in all, a brilliant little one-keyed flute at a very reasonable price. It’s in good working order and would make a great starter instrument for anyone keen to give historical flutes a go.