As a Magic Wand: Antique Conductor’s Baton

Beyond what may appear as a deceptively simple pattern of the conductor’s baton lays passion, emotion and an intimate knowledge of the music being played. Essentially, a conducting baton is an extension of the conductor's hand to indicate the musical beat of a piece through horizontal and vertical movements.

In its original blue-gray paper box with brass hinge and clasps, is a beautifully designed conductor’s baton of ebonized wood with sterling silver mounts. With a long tapered form, the top mount is engraved with three graduated bands of Celtic knot designs replete with texture. The middle mount has the shape of a shield and emblazoned with fine line engraving. The silver tip has been chased with a single band of Celtic knots. All three of the mounts are hallmarked.

Measurements: 19-1/4 inches (48.8 cm) in length; ranges from 5/8 of an inch (1.5 cm) to less than ¼ of an inch (0.6 cm) in diameter.

Hallmarks: Marked at the top and in the middle for Birmingham, England; maker’s mark of R.N.; date for 1911.

Condition: The baton is very good to excellent with little of note. The box has general wear overall and a tad additional edge wear.

Date: 1911

Origin: English

Historical notes: Although its use was disapproved until between 1820 and 1840, the first recorded use of a baton was in the 16th century. Previously a member of the ensemble acted as the conductor; sometimes the principal violinist who used his bow as a baton or the lute player who moved the neck of his instrument in time with the beat. Conductors, specific to that purpose, came into vogue with the rise of Ensemble Music. With so many musicians playing together it became necessary for there to be someone to "lead" them, to indicate when certain passages were to be played and by which section, and the tempo required.