Western Europe, France, Paris, ca. mid to late 19th century CE. This is a lovely clarinet made of wood and nickel-brass, by the instrument maker Martin Freres. The instrument is stamped on each section with the maker mark "MARTIN FES / A / PARIS" within an oval with a bee emblem. Below the maker stamp is an "A" as a serial marker that is overmarked with a "B." This instrument has a lovely natural wood coloration and graining, and would be a lovely display item, as the original condition of these instruments is more valued than playability! Size: 27.5" L x 3" W (69.8 cm x 7.6 cm)
Provenance: ex-Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, acquired prior to 2010
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#168394
Condition
Fair condition. Surface abrasions to wood and patina on keys. Thumb rest appears to be reattached or updated addition with a resin adhesive. Some keys do not articulate or are very stiff. Stable fissure in wood on barrel and mouth cover. All pieces are stamped with a maker mark. Instrument has not been tested for playing functionality.