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This seldom found ear trumpet is called a “Bonnafont Trumpet”. It has three, 3, bends from bell to ear piece and often times called a Bonnafont or Bugle. The instrument looked like a Bugle and thought the design would enhance the sound. It certainly added accent and made this style unique. Most of these treasures were made in England from the middle 1800s to early 1900s. Instrument measures 5” high and bell is 4” in diameter. It is made of non painted metal. It appears a soldered repair has been made, otherwise in very good condition. It is pictured and described in the Bennion book “Antique Hearing Devices”. It is documented that Beethoven during various periods of his life used a London Dome Ear Trumpet while writing his Battle Symphony and later lost total hearing. Bonnafont style ear trumpets are rare and seldom found. This rare treasure will highlight any collection of antique ear trumpets.
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