A rare grenadilla or cocuswood antique flute from the workshop of Jean-Louis Tulou.
 
 Acquired by us from an estate sale in France, the instrument has four keys, no tuning barrel, silver keys and mounts.  There are no cracks to the wood.  Pads and corks are new.
 
The instrument is stamped with maker's stamp and birdie  logo but with no maker’s stamps nor hallmarks on the keywork. 
 
The flute exhibits superior workmanship:  we call attention to the silver caps to the tenons and the silver linings to the sockets. 
 
There’s perhaps a bit of confusion about the age of the instrument.  Based on other similar instruments that have been in our collection, our estimate is that is was made between 1828 and 1851.
 
Embouchure is original, measures 9.0 X 10.8 mm.  Sounding length is 542 mm.
 
The flute plays very well at A = 435 pitch.
 
It’s a beautiful lady that’s come to us in very good  condition, perfect for original instrument (early 19th century) French compositions or just for fun.
 
A gorgeous and original antique flute, also suitable for a serious instrument collection.
 
***GR/Wichita
 
HG