Rudall & Rose Cocus & Silver 8-Key no. 1418

According to London-based flute player, luthier, and historian Robert Bigio, this is the only known surviving Rudall & Rose flute with original saltspoon/padded foot keys for C# and C—not a retrofit but part of the flute’s original design. The flute is currently fitted with foam pads, and all keys, including the foot keys, function well. With a serial number of 1418, it dates to between 1825 and 1830.

Notably, the flute comes with two headjoints: one unlined without a tuning slide (similar to the style played by Catherine McEvoy) and the other lined with a tuning slide and barrel. The holes are small, with hole 4 measuring 7.2mm, yet the flute plays with remarkable power and energy, producing a strong bottom D. Many players prefer smaller finger holes for their responsive articulation and crisp ornamentation.

With the unlined headjoint fully inserted, the flute plays at approximately A=450Hz, while the headjoint with the tuning slide reaches modern pitch (A=440Hz) with the slide extended about 8mm.

Another distinctive feature is its original case, designed to accommodate both headjoints. A brass plaque on the exterior reads M.J. Oleonnell, Kerry Regt., and a small piece of paper inside bears the name Hugo Carl Berger, possibly a later owner.

Given its history, the flute has some light marks but remains in overall very good condition. The lined headjoint and barrel have common hairline cracks, as does the unlined headjoint; all were previously sealed. Additionally, the block for the long C key was damaged at some point and has been replaced with a grafted block. Close-up photos of these repairs can be seen in the last five images.