This set is stamped “Dn MacDougall Aberfeldy” under the projecting mount on the bass bottom, dating the set to between 1888 and 1898. The pipes are ebony with what appear to be elephant ivory mounts, though the bushes display the translucence of marine ivory.

The finish is superb, suggesting they have been refinished in recent times. The chanter stock had a hairline crack that has been invisible whipped. There are no other visible cracks in the pipes.

There are several small chips in the ivory. On the upper projecting mount on the bass bottom in particular there is a chattering patch for an inch or so on each side of the mount, like it got sandwiched between something abrasive. It’s more apparent to the hand than the eye.

The blowstick is quite short, and with the longest mouthpiece will only extend to 9.5.” A longer poly Walsh extendable with an imitation ivory mount that matches quite well can be provided if a longer blowpipe is needed.

The pipes are quite bold, even by MacDougall standards. They are steady and seamless with a great bass. With a set of Canning reeds the tenors tuned just below the hemp. This 120-year-old MacDougall set is really a lovely find.