Characterful vintage cornet or brass band horn, stamped “Made For Barratts Of Manchester – Foreign” to the bell. Silver-plated brass with a lovely, dull old shine and heaps of honest wear, it has that proper music-room, rehearsal-hall feel and makes a brilliant decorative piece for an industrial loft, bar, studio or curiosity-filled living room. The three valves and complex tubing give it great sculptural presence, whether stood on a sideboard or hung on the wall. Measures approximately 45 cm tall (about 17.75 inches).

Dating to the early–mid 20th century, this is very much a salvaged, non-playing example. The bell and lower section show heavy denting and creasing, there are numerous knocks, dings and solder marks around the body, general tarnish and plating wear throughout, and the valves/slides are stiff from long disuse. It’s offered as a decorative or restoration project only. A wonderfully battered old horn with bags of atmosphere and storytelling potential.