Transverse flute in C

Side-blown flute made in five sections (head, barrel, upper and middle joints, and foot joint) of narwhal tusk. Eight flat, round-cover, silver keys mounted in blocks and foot stock bulge. The low C and C-sharp touches overlap. Flat springs attached to keys. End cap and screw of horn too. Oval embouchure hole. Nominal pitch: C. Narwhal tusks were once among the most prized materials, valued higher than gold, as they were believed to be those of the mythological unicorns. This instrument is part of the Albert C. Spencer collection.