Wonderful antique French Charles X to Napoleon III era accordion or “fluting” with ornate marquetry inlay, mother of pearl keys and original baffles in fine working order! In our over 30 years, we've only found a handful of these beautiful early 1800s French accordions, property called a "Flutina". Beautiful marquetry and hardwood, likely rosewood, veneered case, carved mother of pearl key covers and an ornate card and parchment baffles that are entirely intact and the piece is in fine working condition. Beautiful just to display, this one actually will play. I feel like it's a bit fragile, though I think I am getting all the key notes to work. Probably needs a strap on the bottom side. The cabinet on this one is beautiful, sinuous tendrils, flowers & foliate marquetry surround the serpentine wood sides, all 4. Not perfect, but certainly could be restored with some mother of pearl finger keys (see images). Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent with age and type considered. First half of 1800s, an ornamental case in hardwood remains in excellent condition. Card and fine leather baffles in remarkably complete condition. I find no holes. Photos from all angles show the full condition. No missing pearl stoppers but, as you can see, a few of the finger key covers are missing or partially missing. These are the few parts one might restore. Beautiful as it is, a wonderful display or musical instrument collector's item!
