When was the recorder the most popular instrument?

The recorder was most popular during the Renaissance and Baroque periods, roughly from the 16th to the early 18th centuries. It was widely used in both secular and sacred music, often featured in ensembles and as a solo instrument. Its popularity declined with the rise of the transverse Flute, but it has seen a resurgence in interest in modern times, particularly in early music ensembles and educational settings.