Antique Wooden Transverse Flute – Thibouville Aîné, Paris (circa 1850–1880)

Antique Wooden Flute – Thibouville Aîné, Paris (c. 1850–1880)

This is a beautiful antique wooden transverse flute, made in Paris by Thibouville Aîné in the second half of the 19th century. The instrument is stamped:

• Length: approx. 61.5 cm

• Material: dark hardwood (likely ebony or rosewood) with metal rings and keys

• System: conical bore with simple key system (pre-Boehm design)

• Period: around 1850–1880, as indicated by the maker’s mark and the Breveté S.G.D.G. patent stamp

This flute represents the Romantic era style of French woodwind instruments, before the modern Boehm system became standard. It is both a collectible instrument and a decorative piece of craftsmanship.

Condition:
The flute is in overall good antique condition but has a visible crack in one section (see photos). This is quite common for instruments of this age. The crack could be stabilized or restored by a professional woodwind repairer if desired. Otherwise, it is sold as-is, mainly for collectors or display.