Auguste Buffet Simple System B Flat Clarinet
A rare Auguste Buffet simple system Bb clarinet. Louis Auguste Buffet, 1816-1884, was the son of Auguste Buffet, jeune, and therefore was a cousin to Jean-Louis, the founder of Buffet Crampon. His stamps: A lyre, 5 pointed star, Auguste/Buffet/PARIS/Brevete/S.D.G.D.
are present on all pieces of this remarkable clarinet which is a commission sale for Clarinets Direct, having come from the collection of Nicholas Bucknall.
The clarinet is in good condition for an instrument which probably dates to 1860-70. All pieces are original, there is some tenon damage to the bottom tenon of the lower joint, and some wear to the m'piece. The instrument may be made from Cocus wood. The key work is made from Maillechort or German Silver and is of excellent quality. Of particular note is the touchpiece for C#/G# and the rollers for both sets of "pinky" keys. The instrument does not play and will need a complete restoration and repair to the tenon to be playable. The barrel is currently stuck to the upper joint. The original leather case has a broken handle but still locks and latches.