Transverse Flute in F
mid-19th century
Medium
boxwood, brass
Dimensions
L. 19 7/8 x Embouchure L. 17 3/16 in. (50.5 x 43.7 cm)
Classification
Aerophone-Blow Hole-side-blown flute (transverse)
Culture
American
Department
Musical Instruments
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1978
Accession Number
1978.136.4
Art Historical Context
This elegant transverse flute in F, crafted in the mid-19th century by the New York firm William A. Pond & Company, exemplifies the refined craftsmanship of American musical instrument making during a period of growing orchestral and band traditions. Made of boxwood with brass fittings, the instrument measures just under 20 inches in length and features the side-blown embouchure typical of the aerophone classification. Its simple yet precise construction reflects the era’s blend of traditional woodworking techniques with emerging industrial precision in metalwork. Pond & Company, primarily kn...