Western Europe, France, Paris, ca. early to mid-19th century CE. This is a lovely pair of 6-keyed clarinets both made of boxwood, ebony, and brass, by the instrument maker Martin Freres. Both instruments are stamped on the upper / lower joints, barrel, and bell sections with the maker mark "MARTIN FES / A / PARIS." The boxwood has a lovely natural honey coloration and graining with black ebony joints that contrast beautifully with the lighter hues. Both would be a lovely display pieces, as the original condition of these instruments is more valued than playability. Size (clarinet w/ mouthpiece): 23.5" L x 3" W (59.7 cm x 7.6 cm)
Provenance: ex-Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, acquired prior to 2010
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#168431
Condition
One is in fair condition with stable pressure fissures in the wood bell and upper and lower joint. Missing mouthpiece and pads on the keys. The other is fair condition with a stable fissure and chip along break line on the barrel and upper joint and chip to bell rim. Losses to cork pads on keys. Both have clear maker marks and have not been tested for playing functionality.