Menu Close

Circular Pipe Giving Sounds

Koenig Acoustical · Physics

This piece consists of a rectangular wooden pipe in a round, wreath-like shape. A round mouthpiece protrudes from one side. On the body of the pipe are six wooden levers labelled with various numbers, which may be opened or closed to expose holes in the pipe. A sliding door divides the pipe in half and creates a node at that point. Pieces of velcro have been applied to one end.

Accession Number: 2013.ph.618

Alternative Name:

Primary Materials: Wood, steel

Markings:

Near the base of the mouthpiece: “107”. On the body near the mouthpiece: “RUDOLPH KOENIG A PARIS”. The wooden levers are each labelled; clockwise from the mouthpiece, “V5” “V3” “V5” “V5” “V3” “V5”. The sliding door is labelled “N”. The mouthpiece itself is labelled “V”.

Dimensions (cm): Height = 3.4, Width = 32, Length = 22.5

Function:

This piece is a closed pipe that gives only odd harmonies.

Condition:

Very good. There are minor chips and scratches on the body of the pipe. The sliding door is jammed, and the whole piece is very slightly warped. The varnish has worn off in places.

Associated Instruments:

Manufacturer: Rudolph Koenig

Date of Manufacture: Late nineteenth century

Provenance:

University of Toronto Physics Department

Additional Information and References:

See David Pantalony, Altered Sensations: Rudolph Koenig’s Acoustical Workshop in Nineteenth-Century Paris, New York: Springer, 2009, p. 251.

Historical Notes:

Themes: