F. Besson B♭/A (±1880)

This is a Cornet in B♭ with a quick-change rotary switch to A, manufactured by Besson Paris. The serial number 20111 and the engraving of "31 medailles" suggest it was built around 1880. This puts its production during the management of Florentine Ridoux, as confirmed by the "FR" monogram and "Brevetée" marks stamped on both the bell and the second valve casing. It is also possible it was assembled shortly after her passing, during the brief window when her daughter Marthe ran the firm before marrying into the Fontaine family.