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Two equal pipes with mouth-pieces in different positions

Koenig Acoustical · Physics

This instrument consists of two square wooden organ pipes of equal proportions. The first, 2013.ph.617.1, is open at one end and has a mouth and round spout at the other. The second, 2013.ph.617.2, is similarly open at one end; but at the other, the round spout protrudes vertically from a vertically-set section of the pipe. The mouth of this second pipe is located on the end piece rather than on the body. Velcro has been applied to the bottom surfaces of both pipes.

Accession Number: 2013.ph.617

Alternative Name:

Primary Materials: Wood, steel

Markings:

On 2013.ph.617.1: “92” on the top surface near the spout; “RUDOLPH KOENIG A PARIS” on the body near the mouth.
On 2013.ph.617.2: “92” on top near the spout; “RUDOLPH KOENIG A PARIS” on the body near the mouth.

Dimensions (cm):

For 2013.ph.617.1: Height=5.5, Width=5.4, Length=48; For 2013.ph.617.2: Height=14.5, Width=5.5, Length=39

Function:

These pipes demonstrate how the position of the mouth-piece has no effect on sound.

Condition:

Good. On 2013.ph.617.1, there are minor scratches and abrasions on the body of the piece. The vertical piece from which the spout protrudes on 2013.ph.617.2 has broken off, and this pipe also exhibits minor scratches and abrasions.

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.

Historical Notes:

Themes: