Archaeological and Historical Context
The Hohle Fels Cave, site of the 42,000-year-old discovery.
The Hohle Fels flute, discovered in a cave in southwestern Germany in 2008, represents the earliest definitive evidence of musical instrumentation, dating back approximately 42,000 years to the Upper Paleolithic (Aurignacian period). Carved from the radius bone of a Griffon vulture, the original artifact consists of a segmented body with five finger holes and a V-shaped notch for the mouthpiece.
This product is a high-fidelity, playable reproduction designed for musicians, educators, and historians. Our goal is to provide a meticulously crafted instrument that honors the ancient form while offering robust performance characteristics suitable for modern educational and musical applications.
See the Replica Up Close
Precision Replication and Craftsmanship
The original artifact, handled with archaeological care.
Engineering and Materials
Unlike the brittle nature of the original bone artifact, this replica is constructed using high-stability PETG polymer. This material ensures longevity, resistance to climatic changes, and is certified non-toxic, making the instrument safe and durable for repeated use. Each instrument is fabricated using advanced modern techniques to match the precise dimensions of the reconstructed Paleolithic artifact.
Acoustic Tuning
Based on pioneering research into the sonic properties of the original artifact, the instrument is calibrated to produce a pentatonic scale (A – C – D – E – G). This tonal structure is characteristic of early musical expression and offers an intuitive, meditative acoustic experience, blending well with ambient or drone-based modern soundscapes.
Technical Specifications
- Flute Type
- Rim-Blown (Analogous to Ney/Shakuhachi)
- Tuning
- Pentatonic Scale (Approx. A–C–D–E–G)
- Body Material
- High-Stability PETG Polymer
- Origin
- Fabricated and Voiced in Long Beach, CA, USA
Technique and Instrument Care
Mastering the Embouchure
As a rim-blown instrument, the Hohle Fels replica requires a challenging but rewarding embouchure technique, similar to that used for the traditional Japanese Shakuhachi or Middle Eastern Ney. Tone production relies on directing a focused stream of air precisely across the sharp edge of the windway. This technique allows for subtle pitch manipulation and expression, making consistent tone a matter of practice and breath control.
- Practice gently blowing across the edge, similar to sounding a bottle.
- Experiment with minute changes in the angle of the breath to find the resonant frequency.
- Consistency in pitch is achieved by stabilizing the blowing angle, making each performance unique.
Care and Handling
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and acoustic integrity of the instrument.
- Cleaning: Immediately wipe away internal moisture after each playing session.
- Storage: Avoid exposure to extreme heat (e.g., direct sunlight or closed vehicles) to prevent material deformation.
- Deep Clean: If required, the windway can be rinsed with lukewarm water. Ensure the instrument is fully air-dried before storage.
Own a Piece of Acoustic History
Hand-crafted Hohle Fels Flute – $55
Ships from Long Beach, CA • Fast free U.S. shipping
Guarantee & Disclosure
We stand behind the quality of our craftsmanship. If the replica arrives with any defect or damage, we will issue an immediate replacement. We offer a 14-day satisfaction guarantee; please contact us if you are not entirely satisfied with your purchase.
Important Disclosure:
This product is a modern, educational, and musical reproduction. It is not an original archaeological artifact, nor is it affiliated with the original discovery or research team unless explicitly stated.
