Fife
The fife is a simple, six-hole flute that has traditionally been used for military purposes. Paired with a side drum, the fife was used to give signals to soldiers for all parts of their daily activities.
Thomas Cahusac, Sr., and his two sons Thomas, Jr., and William Maurice were important woodwind makers in London during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth century. At the height of the company's operation, they also sold string and keyboard instruments and published music.
Thomas Cahusac, Sr., and his two sons Thomas, Jr., and William Maurice were important woodwind makers in London during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth century. At the height of the company's operation, they also sold string and keyboard instruments and published music.
Artwork Details
- Title: Fife
- Maker: Thomas Cahusac, Sr. (British, London 1714–1798 London)
- Date: ca. 1780–90
- Geography: London, England, United Kingdom
- Culture: British
- Medium: Maple, brass
- Dimensions: L. 38.1 cm (15 in.); Diam. 2.5 cm (1 in.)
- Classification: Aerophone-Blow Hole-side-blown flute (transverse)
- Credit Line: Gift of Mark J. Leone, 2000
- Object Number: 2000.365
- Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments
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Thomas Cahusac, Sr.
ca. 1800
Richard Meares
ca. 1680
German
1760–90
On loan to The Met
Jacob Kirkman
1744
British
1640–65
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