The H. N. White Company was known for many things but my favorite is the engraving that was done on their instruments Early on, Mr. White lured many engravers away from such companies as Conn, and York. These craftsmen brought a level of quality and beauty second to none! Engraving at The H. N. White Company went thru four distinct phases over time: first was the "flower" phase, second was the "Art Deco" phase, Third was the "limited flower" and crowns phase, and fourth was "limited engraving" phase.In the early 1960's engraving became extremely limited, but this was very common for the entire industry. In 1936 Mr. Austin Kramer became the head and lead engraver after the previous head of the department (name withheld until Biography can be completed) left the company with F. A. Reynolds.

King Master Model

"Silver Tone" Model No. 2 (1932)

1950's 2B Trombone

Fourth: "Limited Engraving"

1955-1965

1960's 3B Trombone

The most unique engraving was the "artist special" level, which usually had the entire instrument engraved with flowers, birds, and sometimes naked ladies. The skill it took to engrave an entire instrument was second to none. "Artist level" engraved instruments are some what rare, and the H. N. White Collection is the largest collection in the world with nine instruments at that level (1. Mini Trumpet, 3. Trumpets, 2. Cornets, 2. Trombones, and 3. Saxophones). The H. N. White Company produced more instruments with "artist special" engraving before WW II then after the War, in part this was due to the economics of the time. Please check out the Silver Bell page for more engraving pictures!

King Artists' Special Tenor

with Naked Lady

(1926)

Artist Special - Fully Engraved

King Master Model Cornet

"Silver Tone" Art Deco Bell

(1937-38)

Artist Level Special - Fully Engraved