It is difficult to identify bagpipes without a maker’s stamp being present or other compelling information or documentation. Still, we are able to draw comparisons with known J & R Glen Bagpipes and follow them down through the ages.
I’ll start with these pictures of a very early J & R Glen bagpipe that is stamped just above the ferrule bead. Note the perfect beading and combing.
This is an outstanding example of their work. The bagpipe is cocuswood with brass caps and ferrules and horn projecting mounts. This bagpipe is likely ca 1890. I get the impression that it was made for middle-eastern royalty.
Regardless of the era, the care and attention to detail in J & R Glen bagpipes can’t be criticized. The overall styling could be called “elegant”. The beading and combing is perfect. I think that it was remarkable that they were able to maintain their quality over such a long period of time. I think it speaks to the strength of character of the founders and the overall commitment to quality that was passed down through the years.
The “Classic” J&R bagpipe has very straight profiles and projecting mounts with an Edinburgh cut-bead. It produces a excellent smooth “indoor” sound but does not carry well in a competition circle.
