A beautiful early 19th century beehive ear trumpet. The spiral design aspired to better function by mimicking the organic shape of the cochlear within the inner ear.

Much of the silver plate is worn through and there are small dings in keeping with its age which also add to the character and charm of this rare hearing aid. At the base is an simple banner with the maker’s mark:

LOUIS LAFONT
11 RUE VIGNON PARIS

underneath which is a finely carved and ornate grille. The earpiece is made from celluloid.

• From the Phisick collection