Material characterization and functional implications of a Claude Laurent glass flute

Abstract

The Claude Laurent glass flutes (1805–1844) are singular elements that contributed to the transformation of musical instruments through the introduction of new styles and technologies. These flutes combine improved technical capabilities with aesthetic criteria, making them high-quality instruments and appreciated objects of art. Through the analysis of an 1823 flute, the present study is focused on the determination of their material characteristics and the relationship of these materials with the flute's structure and constructive process. The composition of the glass and metallic parts has been determined by XRF after establishing a specific calibration for each material and energy range. A potash-lime-silica glass, which shows similar composition to some previously analysed flutes conserved at the Library of Congress in Washington, was used for the glass parts of the flute. Composition of the metallic parts of a Laurent flute is presented for the first time. Regarding the larger parts, four different composition groups can be distinguished. The composition established can yield information about the constructive process and can be related to the function of each group. For example, a silver-copper alloy serving aesthetic reasons was used for all visible metallic parts, while hidden parts that demand higher mechanical resistance were made with bronze. Regarding the flute's smaller metallic parts, which consist of the keys and key levers and some mechanical pieces, such as screws or springs, the materials detected include a silver-copper alloy and steel.