Rescued from a music store that folded in Seattle was an unusual
4-bellows suction unit. It is reversed from the usual configuration
in that the moveable boards are on the outside, and the inlet is on
the inside on the fixed board.
Try as I might I have never been able to identify the original
instrument. It is also curious in that it has refinements such as
screw-down grease fittings on the arms to lubricate the friction
points, yet has only a wooden pulley. The configuration does allow
for easy access to the flap valves. Since all four sides are moving
members, it is supported by a frame that must have attached to a flat
surface. Also unusual is the green bellows cloth, still somewhat
flexible.
If anyone has an idea of where it came from I would like to hear from
you. I have a digital picture.
Bill Chapman
La Quinta, Calif. (Palm Springs area)
[ See photo at http://mmd.foxtail.com/Pictures/ -- Robbie
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