• Author: Lorenzo Cerino
• Date: 1799
• Collection: MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
• Material: chestnut wood and leather
• Inventory: Inv. Cherubini 1988/175

The serpent, developed in the 16th century, was used as a bass to accompany sacred and military music in the 18th century. The origin of the name is explained by its characteristic snake-like shape, which puts the six tone holes within reach of the player’s fingers. The serpent combines the typical technical features of wood and brass instruments: there are tone holes in the body of the instrument operated with the fingers, like flutes and clarinets, yet the sound is created by the vibration of the player’s lips on the mouthpiece, like brass instruments.

This example, made of leather-covered wood, displays the unmistakable craftsmanship of Lorenzo Cerino, as confirmed by the mark on its bezel, and graced the Grand Duke’s collection from 1799 onwards.