Demilune horn "grand cor" 1600 - 1650

This impressive demilune horn was crafted in the Cretien workshop, located in Vernon, sometime between 1620 and 1690. Made from brass, it is an example of skilled metalworking used to produce musical instruments. Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, offered a vibrant, resonant material for instrument making. The creation of this horn likely involved processes such as casting, hammering, and soldering to form its distinctive curved shape. Notice how its material influences its appearance; the smooth, polished surface of the brass reflects light, enhancing its visual appeal, while its inherent acoustic properties contribute to its sound. The form, like its making, would have been the work of skilled tradesmen. These craftspeople weren't just producing functional objects; they were participating in a broader cultural landscape where music and pageantry were key elements of courtly life. Appreciating the material and the making reminds us that artistic expression is deeply rooted in human ingenuity.