Richard Potter Flute 1782

Richard Potter (1728–1806) was the founder of one of the most significant flute-making firms in London. Established around 1745, the business remained active until 1848, reflecting more than a century of distinguished craftsmanship. Potter signed his instruments “Potter Senior,” distinguishing his work and legacy within the thriving 18th-century musical instrument trade.

During this period, flutes were typically crafted from boxwood and featured ivory joints. Most were fitted with a single silver key to cover the lowest finger hole, extending the instrument’s range and improving tonal control.

In addition, this particular example is supplied with two cors de rechange (interchangeable middle joints). These additional sections enable the player to vary the overall length of the flute, offering further flexibility in pitch and adapting the instrument to different tuning standards—an essential feature in the 18th century, when pitch levels were far from standardized.