A FOUR OR SIX KEYED BOXWOOOD AND IVORY-MOUNTED FLUTE, POTSDAM, CIRCA 1795

Details

FRIEDRICH GABRIEL AUGUST KIRST
A FOUR OR SIX KEYED BOXWOOOD AND IVORY-MOUNTED FLUTE, POTSDAM, CIRCA 1795
Stamped at all the joints F.G.A. KIRST/POTSDAM and surmounted with the device of a Prussian eagle, the keys with square beveled covers, four corps de rèchange stamped 1,2,3 and 4 respectivley, and an additional three-keyed foot joint, togather in a period fitted box

Special notice

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country.

Lot Essay

Born in Dresden, 1750, Friedrich Gabriel August Kirst began his apprenticeship in 1763 with the Dresden woodwind maker, Carl Augustin Grenser. After relocating to Potsdam around 1768, he worked for another maker by the name C. F. Freyer. After the death of Freyer he became the successor to his employer's workshop, and in 1772 was granted the privilege of supplying woodwinds to the Prussian army. By 1779 Kirst was the salaried flute-maker to Prussia's king and renowned flautist Frederick the Great, establishing him to the pantheon of important German flute-makers.

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