Name/Title
Phonographe Virtuose by Thibouville LamyEntry/Object ID
201Description
Le Virtuose – French Luxury Phonograph with Hunting Horn
Jérôme‑Thibouville‑Lamy & Cie., Paris – ca. 1898
The Virtuose is an outstanding example of French phonograph production from the late 1890s. Manufactured and marketed by Jérôme‑Thibouville‑Lamy & Cie. (JTL), a renowned Parisian maker of fine musical instruments, this model combined elegant design with refined sound reproduction technology.
Historical Background
In the 19th century, JTL was one of Europe’s largest producers of violins, wind instruments, and other musical instruments. The company enjoyed high international prestige; founder Jérôme Thibouville was awarded the Légion d’Honneur in 1877 for his contributions to French musical culture.
With the growing popularity of the phonograph, JTL identified a new business opportunity in the late 1890s and introduced its own models. Marketed under the slogan “La Machine qui parle” – The Talking Machine – these were aimed at affluent customers with both a technical interest and a taste for prestigious furnishings.
Construction and Design
This example of the Virtuose combines technical precision with luxurious execution:
Cabinet: Polished rosewood case, front decorated with a gold‑colored lyre decal featuring a singing bird and the model name VIRTUOSE.
Horn: Large, curved “hunting horn” made of nickel‑plated metal, delivering powerful and clear sound projection.
Mechanism: Spring‑driven motor with crank winding; precision governor ensuring steady speed.
Cylinder Format: Designed for Concert‑size wax cylinders.
Advertising and Marketing
Period advertisements promoted the Virtuose as “perfectionné” – technically perfected and free from disturbing gear noise. Each machine was supplied with an extensive set of accessories:
Recording set with dictation horn
Playback reproducer
Several recorded and blank cylinders
Storage case for 12 cylinders
Brush for cylinder cleaning
Prices ranged from 100 to 140 francs, positioning the Virtuose firmly in the upper market segment.
Significance
The Virtuose represents the refinement of the phonograph into a true luxury object. While Edison models often appeared plain and utilitarian, JTL placed great emphasis on craftsmanship and visual appeal. It embodies the French approach of harmoniously blending technology and aesthetics – a concept that makes it a highly desirable collector’s item today.
Rarity
Original examples with a complete hunting horn and intact decorative elements are extremely rare. The Virtuose on display at the Edisonium is in exceptional original condition, vividly illustrating just how luxurious a phonograph could be around 1900.
