A Surprising Thrift Store Find
I walked into a local thrift store with zero expectations. I was just browsing—until something caught my eye. It looked like a cross between a submarine and a potato. Intrigued, I picked it up and flipped it over.
There it was:
“Ant. Canella Ferrara, Italy.”
Ceramic. Handmade. Italian.
Price? Just one dollar. I didn’t think twice—I bought it.
A Hidden Gem: The Antonio Canella Ocarina
Once home, I did some quick research. What I had stumbled upon was an Antonio Canella ocarina—a handcrafted wind instrument from Ferrara, Italy. And yes, it was the real deal.
What Exactly Is an Ocarina?
The ocarina is an ancient wind instrument. Cultures across the globe have used variations of it for centuries—from China to Mesoamerica to Europe.
The modern version—shaped like a sweet potato—was developed in the mid-1800s by Giuseppe Donati of Budrio, Italy. Ferrara became a hub for ocarina making, and Antonio Canella carried that legacy forward.
Why Canella Ocarinas Stand Out
Musicians and collectors admire Antonio Canella’s ocarinas for their beautiful craftsmanship and rich, airy sound. They’re more than instruments—they’re works of art.
Describing Mine
The one I found is a ten-hole transverse ocarina. It’s glazed brown ceramic, with a gold stamp near the mouthpiece.
It feels solid, yet handmade. When I blow into it, it produces a sound that’s haunting and almost otherworldly. It’s not a whistle. It’s not a flute. It’s something ancient and entirely unique.
How Much Is It Worth?
Depending on its condition and tuning, an Antonio Canella ocarina typically sells for $30 to $100. Pristine or vintage pieces can reach $120 or more.
I bought mine for just $1—a rare find, even with a few imperfections.
What Makes Ocarinas So Special?
Their sound is soft, nostalgic, and dreamlike. Unlike the recorder’s sharp tone or the flute’s formal feel, the ocarina evokes a sense of timelessness.
Plus, it’s always a conversation starter. People either mention The Legend of Zelda or ask, “Is that an ocarina?” Either way, they’re not far off.
Should You Buy One?
Absolutely. Whether you want to display it, play it, or collect it—Antonio Canella ocarinas are worth it. If you ever spot one stamped “Ant. Canella Ferrara, Italy,” grab it. You won’t regret it.
Final Thoughts
Thrift stores are full of surprises. My discovery of an Antonio Canella ocarina reminded me that hidden treasures often sit right in front of us.
So, next time you’re browsing, take a closer look. Flip items over. Look for stamps. Who knows? You might uncover a beautiful piece of musical history—just like I did.
