This is a tonally spectacular set of full ivory Henderson pipes with engraved silver slides.

The slides are not hallmarked; however, the mouthpiece tube is hallmarked 1925. The mouthpiece tube is well worn, and it’s hard to tell if it matches the slides. It’s possible that the slides were added later, but the pipes themselves are certainly of the same vintage as the mouthpiece tube: easily 1920s or earlier.

Because the pipes didn’t need to be refinished, the identity of the wood couldn’t be determined for sure. They aren’t ebony. They appear to be blackwood, but in good light they have a distinct reddish cocuswood tinge.

The pipes are in superb condition, showing no cracks or repairs and only some very normal, minor chipping to the mounts.

The tone is big and bold, rich and locked-in steady: really classic Henderson.