Basset Horn in F 1800 - 1870

This 19th-century "Basset Horn in F" by Joseph Seidel is a fine example of the craftsmanship of the period. The double-reed woodwind instrument is a larger version of the clarinet, known for its mellow, resonant sound. It features a distinctive bent upper section, silver-plated bell and intricate keywork. This particular instrument is part of the collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. It offers a glimpse into the evolution of musical instruments during the 19th century. The basset horn was a popular instrument in the classical period, and many composers, including Mozart and Beethoven, wrote music for it.