The early Robertson bagpipes were very angular. Tuning chambers were straight-sided and flared out at quite a severe angle. They were often made of ebony however can be found in other woods.
In determining when a bagpipe was built, we sometimes rely on hallmarks, which may not be 100% accurate. Silver is generally made prior to the bagpipe (the bagpipe is made to fit the silver) or it may have been added later. We are sometimes fortunate to have strong documentation, such as the Patent that Alexander Ross received in 1923. This gives us an indication of the bagpipe that Robertson was making at that time. The unique profile of the various pieces and the center scribe lines on the ferrules helps regarding this first generation of Robertson bagpipes.
