You thought you’d seen it all, but this lovely wind instrument is proof you haven’t!  It’s a cross-blown flageolet or flute-flageolet.

John PARKER (ca.1757-1813) was highly regarded in the instrument-making trade. He was also an oboist, bass singer and bassoon player. He worked out of 52 Long Lane, Southwark, England for around 33 years before he moved to 3 Angel Court. He died with that address in December 1813 aged 56. His workshop and home at Angel Court was taken over by the specialist flute maker John WILLIS (1782-1823). It is thought that John Willis was perhaps even one of Parker’s apprentices or journeymen. John Willis went on to make flutes for George RUDALL (1781-1871) out of that same address.

If we take a look at the New Langwill Index, we see that John Parker is known for the ‘invention of a cross-blown flageolet according to Galpin’. We think this item is likely to be this instrument.  It came to us without a cap, making it impossible to play. But a certain master woodwind instrument maker has made a new one for it. 😊

The instrument has some playing challenges since the labium has been enlarged, but was obviously made to play in C. It features a single brass key. It’s a lovely item – a rare antique find!