A beautiful boxwood clarinet made around the early 1800s.  This has 8 metal keys altogether which helps to date it to the early 1800s.  Just after this period, clarinets started to resemble the modern clarinet we know with many more keys.  This one and its predecessors is of a similar size to the modern E flat clarinet, sometimes known as the soprano.  I believe this one is in the key of D.It is marked on the bell: by D'Almaine & co Late Goulding & D'Almaine Soho Square London. Other sections are also marked.23 inches long including the mouthpiece.  The condition detail from top to bottom: The mouthpiece, which looks to be ebony, has considerable teeth mark wear. The reed is badly split (we are keeping that on as don't want to disturb the cotton). I don't think this would have been the original reed!! It looks like an Eb clarinet reed. The mouthpiece joint has been reinforced with plastic. The barrel has some wear to the maker's logo and some of the inlaid bone/ivory pieces. The next joint down is quite loose so may need re-corking. All keys have some verdigris. The index finger key (A key on a modern clarinet) has lost its spring and stays open or closed without returning. The joint between upper and lower sections turns but doesn't come apart. We've attempted light twists and a bit of coaxing, but we don't want to damage this relic by trying, so we have left this as it is. The lower keys also have verdigris.  A section of the right hand little finger key has snapped off but is still functioning. Otherwise very good example compared to others of its age.