Folded Ear Trumpet (Ear Horn)
There are no manufacturer's marks on this folded (convoluted) ear
trumpet, but the Down Bros. catalogue of 1892 lists a somewhat
similar-shaped ear trumpet so it probably dates from around 1890 or so.
The
Phisick collection has an similarl-looking one made by Stille of
Switzerland also dating to 1890.
The Down Bros. catalogue lists 4 sizes ranging in price from 7
shillings & 6 pence to 12 shilling and 6 pence.
This folded (or convoluted) ear trumpet does not appear to have been
very common—only listed in one catalogue. The bugle style of folded ear
trumpets was much more common—and is listed in most catalogues of the
time—probably because they worked better.
This ear trumpet measures 6¼" high by 3" wide and is 2" in
diameter. It is quite light—weighing only 3.7 oz.
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Side view of the folded (convoluted) ear trumpet. Notice, that in contrast to
almost all the other short ear-trumpets in the museum, the earpiece of
this one comes from the back and crosses over the top of the
trumpet. It is quite comfortable to hold up to your ear.
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Close-up view of the ear piece. The ear tip is missing. |
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This ear trumpet doesn't have a grill over the opening in the bell.
Also, the bell opening isn't flared like those of many other ear
trumpets. Since the bell is only 2" in diameter, doesn't gather as much
sound as larger bells would. |
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When not in use, you can stand this ear trumpet on any flat surface
ready for the next time you need it. |
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View from the top of the folded ear trumpet. |
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View of the back side of the folded ear trumpet. No doubt, the two
right-angle turns the sounds signals make attenuate the volume. Thus,
this ear trumpet doesn't have much volume.
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