This very old Henderson set is in superb shape for its age.

Dating is difficult with a set like this, but the shape and patina of the ivory suggest pre-Great War.

The nickel ferrules are original. The slides were added by the previous owner and are a perfect match.

All pieces are original and unrepaired, except for the chanter stock that had a slight crack that has been invisible whipped. The ivory drone caps have some normal age chipping. One projecting mount has had a piece of ivory about a quarter-inch square surgically inserted into what was undoubtedly a chip. The seams are visible but the ivory is a perfect match. The tuning chambers are perfectly even.

The tone is lovely: robust, but not overpowering; rich, with the deep, luxuriant Henderson bass and locked-in steadiness.
This is a prime, vintage Henderson set that would hold its own against any bagpipe in the world.

The slight shine in the photos is the not-quite-dry remnants of a 4-day almond oil bath.