On a friend’s behalf I am selling a lovely Thurgood 8-key cocus flute made in London, about 1835-40. It has sterling silver rings and keys and is in good condition. The keys are beautifully buffed and are simple and elegant. The slight cracks that were found have been expertly repaired and are nearly invisible. The long F key is plugged and the low C# and C keys have no pads. I assume they would play if padded.
The flute is stamped “Thurgood/London/Patent.” Thurgood is not very well identified in Langwill’s Index. However, this flute resembles Rudall’s flutes of the period and plays with similar clarity and sweetness. It has been retuned by Patrick Olwell.
The flute is offered for $1,425. A Rudall in similar condition would probably sell in the range of $3,500. If the flute doesn’t sell on-list the reserve on EBay will be about $2,000. I have considered buying this flute myself but I have similar flutes and would only buy it as an investment. It should be in the hands of a player.
The flute comes with an old mahogany case which is protective but not especially elegant. Shipping and insurance are included in the price.
We are open to reasonable offers. This will be a final sale since I leave for Ireland the following weekend. Please email me direct at david@dlevine.net.
Thanks
