Collapsible Celluloid Ear Trumpet (2) (Ear Horn) This two-section collapsible faux tortoiseshell ear trumpet probably dates to somewhere around 1890 or so. There are no manufacturer's marks visible so it is uncertain who made it. Celluloid was invented in 1869 and commonly used in manufacture from about 1890 through 1920. This trumpet measures 12¾" when fully extended and collapses to 8". The bell opening is 3½" in diameter (32.4 x 9.0 cm). It weighed only 2.2 oz. (62 g). |  | Click picture for larger view | | |   | | | |
| Side view of the two-section collapsible celluloid ear trumpet shown extended and ready for use.
|  | Click picture for larger view | | | |
| Rear view of the two-section collapsible celluloid ear trumpet.
|  | Click picture for larger view | | | |
| View of the two-section collapsible celluloid ear trumpet showing it collapsed for storing or carrying.
|  | Click picture for larger view | | | |
| Close-up of the bell of the two-section collapsible celluloid ear trumpet showing how the tube collapses into the bell (center) to make it shorter and thus easier to store and carry.
|  | Click picture for larger view | | | |
| Close-up view of the bell of the two-section collapsible celluloid ear trumpet. The bell piece was bonded to the tubular section (center).
|  | Click picture for larger view | | | |
| Close-up view of the bell of the two-section collapsible celluloid ear trumpet with the sun shinning through the bell showing the beautiful colors and pattern of the faux tortoiseshell.
|  | Click picture for larger view | | | |
| Like many ear trumpets, this collapsible celluloid ear trumpet had a "hole" through which a lanyard was threaded so you could hang in around your neck when not needed, ready for use the moment it is needed. Unlike most, the lanyard is still there. This ear trumpet must have been used by a child as the lanyard is far to small to fit over my head.
|  | Click picture for larger view | | | |
| Side view of the ear tip of the collapsible celluloid ear trumpet showing the 90° bend just before the ear tip. Unlike many ear trumpets of the time, this ear tip is also made out of celluloid.
|  | Click picture for larger view | | | |
| Close-up view of the hole in the end of the ear tip of the collapsible celluloid ear trumpet.
|  | Click picture for larger view | | |
|
(If a larger picture doesn't appear, you may have to
turn your pop-up blocker off)
|
| |
