The Couesnon & Cie Paris metal clarinet is a rare, vintage Bb Boehm system instrument, typically crafted with a silver-plated body and nickel alloy keys, notable for its large bore and high-quality French craftsmanship. Overview and History Couesnon & Cie, a historic Parisian manufacturer, is known for creating both wooden and metal clarinets, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Metal clarinets by Couesnon are quite rare, as most clarinets from this era were wooden Reverb . The models often feature a Boehm system, which became standard in France around the early 20th century. A notable example is a vintage c.1920s Bb LP Boehm clarinet with a silver-plated body, silver bell, nickel alloy keys, and an extra-large bore of .595", enhancing tonal projection and resonance Reverb . Design and Materials Body: Typically silver-plated metal, which provides durability and a bright, resonant tone. Some variations may have lacquer finishes. Keys: Nickel alloy, designed for longevity and smooth playability. Bore Size: Extra-large bore (.595") compared to standard clarinets, giving it a rich, powerful sound ideal for solo and ensemble settings 1 . Special Features: Double-walled construction is sometimes used to stabilize tuning and enhance tonal consistency. Vintage instruments may also include intricate Parisian engraving or markings from Couesnon & Cie.