van Cauwelaert

van Cauwelaert

Label:	F. VAN CAUWELAERT BREVETÉ BRUXELLES
Model:	single, with terminal crooks
Serial Number:	none
Date of Manufacture:	ca. 1871?
Key(s):	F (other terminal crooks as available)
Valves:	3 Périnet piston
Bore:	10.6 mm
Bell Flare:	original gusset, replaced with spun flare
Bell Throat:	approx. 8 cm.
Bell Diameter:	24.4 cm.
Base Metal:	brass
Finish:	raw brass
The original gussett bell flare has been replaced by a spun flare which is crudely engraved "Mathieux Alargale" . The horn also has several expert repair patches and the valves are well worn. This probably indicates that its owner used it extensively and regarded it worth continued maintenance. It plays beautifully and has a very light sweet tone, characteristic of the small-bore french design.

The three Périnet piston valves are sprung from the bottom. The valve tops ("buttons") are restoration replacements by Richard Seraphinoff.

The F terminal crook is by Richard Seraphinoff. The original set of crooks has been lost. The valve slides can probably be used with crooks pitched from at least D to A. The photo above shows the crook in playing position from the player's side.

Speaking of the player . . .

The original label is on the the bell tail. F. van Cauwelaert established his instrument shop in Brussells 1846. Apparently the original gusset-seam bell flare was damaged and was replaced with a spun bell flare. It is not known whether the crudely etched name on the replacement flare is that of the repair person or the owner of the horn.