The One-Dollar Treasure I Almost Overlooked
I walked into a local thrift store without a shopping list—or any expectations. Just killing time, really. But then, something odd caught my eye. It looked like a mix between a submarine and a sweet potato, glazed in ceramic.
Curious, I picked it up and turned it over. That’s when I saw it:
“Ant. Canella – Ferrara, Italy.”
Handmade. Italian. Ceramic.
And the price? Just one dollar.
Sold.
Uncovering a Hidden Gem: The Antonio Canella Ocarina
Back home, a bit of online digging revealed the truth: I had just purchased an Antonio Canella ocarina—a handcrafted wind instrument from Ferrara, Italy. And yes, it was authentic.
So… What’s an Ocarina?
The ocarina is a surprisingly ancient wind instrument, with roots stretching across the world—from ancient China to Mesoamerica and Europe. The modern version, which resembles a plump, ceramic flute, was refined in the 1800s by Giuseppe Donati in Budrio, Italy.
Ferrara soon became a center for ocarina-making, and Antonio Canella helped elevate it into an art form.
Why Canella’s Ocarinas Are Special
Collectors and musicians prize Canella ocarinas not just for their soft, melodic tone, but for their artistic beauty. Each piece is a fusion of history, craftsmanship, and music—a reminder that sometimes, true treasures are hidden in plain sight… or sitting quietly on a dusty thrift store shelf.
Discovering My Ocarina
The one I found is a ten-hole transverse ocarina, crafted from glazed brown ceramic with a subtle gold stamp near the mouthpiece—a mark of authenticity and artistry.
It feels both sturdy and handmade, with a tactile warmth that connects you to its creator. When I blow into it, the sound that emerges is haunting—almost otherworldly. It’s not quite a whistle, not quite a flute; it’s an ancient voice, distinct and enchanting.
What’s It Worth?
Depending on condition and tuning, Antonio Canella ocarinas typically sell for anywhere between $30 and $100. Some pristine or vintage examples can fetch upwards of $120.
I snagged mine for just a single dollar—a rare bargain, even with a few minor imperfections.
Why Are Ocarinas So Special?
The ocarina’s tone is soft, nostalgic, and dreamlike. Unlike the sharp edge of a recorder or the formal elegance of a flute, the ocarina conjures a timeless, almost magical atmosphere.
And it’s always a conversation starter. People either smile and mention The Legend of Zelda or ask with curiosity, “Is that an ocarina?” Either way, it never fails to spark interest.
Should You Get One?
Absolutely. Whether you want a beautiful display piece, a unique instrument to play, or a collector’s treasure, Antonio Canella ocarinas deliver on all fronts. If you ever spot one stamped “Ant. Canella Ferrara, Italy,” don’t hesitate—grab it. You won’t regret it.
Final Thoughts
Thrift stores are treasure troves waiting to be explored. My chance find of an Antonio Canella ocarina reminded me that sometimes, the most beautiful stories hide in the most unexpected places.
So next time you browse those dusty shelves, take your time. Flip items over. Look for stamps. You never know—you might just discover a piece of musical history, just like I did.