An 1880's Inns of Court Rifle Volunteers Bugle by Kohler & Son, London

Issued to buglers of the Inns of Court Rifle Volunteers. Manufactured by Kohler & Son, London, c.1885. Made from copper and brass, fitted with rings to accommodate bugle cord. The bell is stamped with the maker's mark, "Khler & Son - Makers - 116 Victoria Street - Westminster - London" and with the image of two medals along with the dates, "1851 & 1862". The bell is also beautifully engraved with the regiment's initials, "I.C.R.V." (Inns of Court Rifle Volunteers) and with the issue number, "6". The bugle is still fitted with its original brass, silver rimmed mouthpiece which is signed, "Kohler & Son, London" and is secured to the body of the bugle by a chain. Overall length (including mouthpiece): 275mm. Footnote: Khler & Sons were a London based manufacturer of musical instruments from 1780 until 1907. The company achieved a Royal Appointment in 1801, being military musical instrument makers to His Majesty's army and navy. The company was registered at various addresses over the years, one of the earliest being Whitcomb Street, London (between 1790-1793). Instruments dating from between 1882 & 1888 were marked "116 Victoria Street, Westminster".