Bb Bass, 9 key, Brass, ca 1850,
French Ophicleide. Overall length is 43" with a 8 1/2" bell
diameter. Bocal and leadpipe are of the "U" type with adjustable "U"
shape tuning slide typical of all French post 1850 instruments of
this type.
This instrument came from the
collection of the late Phillip Palmer of Richmond, VA. Mr. Palmer
was an internationally known collector of brass instruments, and
considered by many to be a virtuoso performer on the ophicleide.
This instrument was said to be his favorite player, and was played
by him in solo performances and small keyed instrument brass groups. |