Lot 425: A Collection of Vintage Wood Clarinets and Assorted Components including Boosey and Hawkes
A collection of vintage wood clarinet instruments and assorted components. One relatively complete B-flat soprano clarinet is associated with Boosey and Hawkes (Sales) Ltd, as indicated by the accompanying instructional documentation from the Sonorous Works, Edgware. This instrument is constructed from dark hardwood with nickel-plated or silver-plated metal keywork and is housed in a green plush-lined hard-shell case. A second distressed case contains an assortment of disparate clarinet parts crafted from both dark hardwood and a lighter reddish-brown timber, possibly rosewood or an older boxwood variant. Accessories include an original Boosey and Hawkes instruction pamphlet and a vintage State Express 555 cigarette box. No serial numbers or maker marks are clearly visible on the instrument bodies from the provided images.
Condition report:
Both instruments and the assorted parts are in attic-find condition and are offered for restoration or as a source of spare parts. The metal keywork exhibits heavy tarnishing and oxidation throughout. The wooden components show surface wear, grime, and require oiling; they have not been checked for hairline cracks. All cork joints appear aged or perished, and the pads are in a perished state, requiring a full overhaul. The cases show significant exterior and interior wear, including staining, dust, and structural distress. The lot is untested for playability and is sold as-is.
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