Photo of DCM 1261: Whitaker Flute in C - Public domain dedication

Head joint upper portion either a replacement or discolored on embouchure side due to crack repair attempt which may have obliterated original maker mark. It is also unusual in profile, having an integral extra wide (in length 4.1 centimeter) ferrule aroung the embouchure possibly to enlarge it for player comfort or convenience.
Instrument type: Flute in C
Medium: Ivory, ivory cap and cork-setting mechanism, silver keys.; 66.4 cm.
Key Holes System: 7 keys, octagonal, pin in block. Foot to C. Patent roller on F key.
Mark Maximum: WHITAKER & Cº / LONDON / 1819
Mark Additional: Mark on upper, lower, and foot joints. Mark on head: (unicorn) / PATENT.
Condition: Head joint, both sections, cracked. Low C# finger spatula missing.
Provenance: Rudall, Carte & Co., London, 29 Aug. 1935.

The Dayton C. Miller collection in the Library of Congress, contains nearly 1,700 flutes and other wind instruments, statuary, iconography, books, music, trade catalogs, tutors, patents, and other materials mostly related to the flute. It includes both Western and non-Western examples of flutes from around the world, with at least 460 European and American instrument makers represented. Items in the collection date from the 16th to the 20th century.