Couesnon "French Wrap" (1908)

Manufactured in 1908, this elegant cornet holds a legendary status inside my colection. It is the very first instrument that re-kindled my passion for vintage brass instruments, officially starting this entire collection.
This horn features a beautiful "French Wrap" configuration, where the main bell is tightly nestled right between the outer leadpipe and the central valve block. This compact layout was a hallmark of classic turn-of-the-century Parisian design.
While it holds an immense sentimental value, the cornet is currently unplayable. Over the last century, it has developed several air leaks through its vintage brass tubing.
In addition to the tubing leaks, the mechanism is mechanically incomplete because it is missing a single internal valve spring stop washer, preventing the piston from resetting correctly. It remains unrestored to show the real-world condition in which many antique instruments are discovered.