Here comes an early ocarina by Ercole Mezzetti which was quite probably still made in Budrio (see stamp) before 1878, i. e. before Ercole and his brother Alberto moved to Paris to continue their business. Usually those French instruments are stamped "E. Mezzetti Paris Fabt. Breveté S.G.D.G", but this one has still the Budrio stamp and somethings that looks like the maker's fingerprint.

The condition and sound of the ocarina are great: no damage of the terracotta (just some wear of the paint) and a warm, smooth, earthy tone. Pitch: E flat.

Length: 14 cm

Weight: 149 g

By the way: Ercole and Alberto Mezzetti were members of the famous pioneer ocarina ensemble "Montanari degli Appenini". The (original) picture is not part of the auction but could be purchased on demand.