Orsi Contrabass ad Anchia, c. 1870
The Orsi Contrabass ad Anchia (aka contrebasse à anche or reed contrabass) is a rare and notable example of European woodwind craftsmanship from the late 19th century. Crafted by the esteemed Orsi atelier based in Milan, Italy, this intricately designed instrument represents a fascinating period in musical instrument development. Orsi, founded in the early 1800s, is known for its meticulous attention to detail and innovative approaches within the wind instrument category, particularly during a time when orchestral and military ensemble music flourished.
Design Features
Constructed circa 1870, this contrabass ad anchia is made of yellow brass. Its design is characterized by an unusual key system unique to contrabass ad anchias and similar in idea and scope to that of the ophicleide. The instrument features distinct hand-crafted embellishments and engravings, a signature trait of Orsi’s dedicated craftsmanship.
Condition Report
As expected for an artifact of its age, this contrabass ad anchia exhibits wear consistent with its historical journey. This instrument is not guaranteed to be playable and is offered as a historical artifact only. However, it is completely intact and completely restorable, though it will need all new pads and the attention of a good tech. It is an invaluable collector's piece suitable for academic study or display in museums and educational institutions interested in the evolution of woodwind instruments.
As this instrument is historically interesting, we have chosen to not do restoration work on it and leave that to the eventual owner.
In stock! Ships within 1-2 business days.
30-day risk-free trial
2-Year Warranty
Complimentary shipping for all U.S. orders over $99
Orsi Contrabass ad Anchia, c. 1870 HISTORIC COLLECTION
Orsi Contrabass ad Anchia, c. 1870
The Orsi Contrabass ad Anchia (aka contrebasse à anche or reed contrabass) is a rare and notable example of European woodwind craftsmanship from the late 19th century. Crafted by the esteemed Orsi atelier based in Milan, Italy, this intricately designed instrument represents a fascinating period in musical instrument development. Orsi, founded in the early 1800s, is known for its meticulous attention to detail and innovative approaches within the wind instrument category, particularly during a time when orchestral and military ensemble music flourished.
Design Features
Constructed circa 1870, this contrabass ad anchia is made of yellow brass. Its design is characterized by an unusual key system unique to contrabass ad anchias and similar in idea and scope to that of the ophicleide. The instrument features distinct hand-crafted embellishments and engravings, a signature trait of Orsi’s dedicated craftsmanship.
Condition Report
As expected for an artifact of its age, this contrabass ad anchia exhibits wear consistent with its historical journey. This instrument is not guaranteed to be playable and is offered as a historical artifact only. However, it is completely intact and completely restorable, though it will need all new pads and the attention of a good tech. It is an invaluable collector's piece suitable for academic study or display in museums and educational institutions interested in the evolution of woodwind instruments.
As this instrument is historically interesting, we have chosen to not do restoration work on it and leave that to the eventual owner.
Pairs well with
In stock! Ships within 1-2 business days.
30-day risk-free trial
2-Year Warranty
Complimentary shipping for all U.S. orders over $99
Orsi Contrabass ad Anchia, c. 1870 HISTORIC COLLECTION
If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us. We'll get back to you as soon as possible, within 24 hours on weekdays.
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Shipping Information
Orders valued over $99 ship via FedEx 2-Day within the U.S. and via DHL internationally. A physical address (no P.O. Boxes) and signature are required. Smaller accessories ship via USPS (2–5 day service) and do not require a signature if valued under $99. Please see our FAQ for additional details.
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Return Policy
We offer an unconditional 30-day return policy to ensure you’re completely satisfied. If you’re unhappy for any reason, return the item for a full refund or full exchange credit (reeds and other consumables are non-returnable once opened). Every instrument we sell is guaranteed to be free of mechanical defects—if an issue arises, contact us and we’ll either reimburse a local repair or provide a prepaid return label for repair, exchange, or refund. If you simply change your mind, you may still return the item for a full refund, but return shipping costs are the customer’s responsibility unless free returns were purchased through Redo at checkout. Please see our FAQ for additional details.
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Shop Warranty:
Brand new items are covered by the full manufacturer’s warranty unless otherwise noted (see the individual maker for details). Open box, used, and vintage items include a two-year warranty serviced by our in-house repair shop, and we guarantee every instrument will be free of mechanical defects. Warranty coverage does not include damage from accident, misuse, negligence, improper operation, unauthorized alterations or removed serial numbers, normal wear and routine maintenance, environmental damage (including perspiration, corrosion, or extreme temperature and humidity), lacquer or plating wear, or consumable parts such as springs, pads, and felts. Please see our FAQ for additional details.