c1920 British Phono Fiddle with Brass Horn by Howson

An unusual looking and rare c1920 Phonofiddle, with its amplifying horn by A. T. Howson, of London.
The musical instrument is made of a solid piece of mahogany wood, with a straight brass and steel horn coming off its side, that has a flared bell slotted to its side. There is a single wire string, which is attached to a tensioning key. The other end of the body has a piece ending in ear shapes which are knee grips. The top of the wood, where the cord runs, has an ebony wood fingerboard with position marks. There is a circular celluloid manufacturer's label on one side which reads: TRADE MARK - PHONO FIDDLE - A. T. Howson [signature] - REG. No. 287991. On the underside there is a transfer applied manufacturer’s printed name in gold. The fiddle comes with a nice quality wood bow and horse hair. Condition of both is very good apart from a little bit of damage to the ebony fingerboard and some light rust to the steel bit of the horn.
This fiddle is played seated, with the instrument held between the knees inclined to the player’s shoulder in a cello-like manner.
Size: 84 x 32 x 34 cm (33 x 12 ½ x 13 ½ inches)
Weight: 822 g