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A top quality instrument from the early 19th century
that displays all the characteristics from the workshops of J.B.
Vuillaume.
A visually wonderful instrument of pleasing proportions.
Smaller than the many instruments made later around the turn of
the 20th century this instrument is of viol shape with a flat back
that gently inclines from a lower rib depth of 22.1cm at the end-pin
unit narrowing to a mere 14.4cm at the neck. With steeply sloping
shoulders this is without question the sort of instrument that
most players would kill for.
The stupendous varnish simply makes this instrument
stand out from the crowd. It is golden-orange-red over a yellow
ground and is of the same quality to that seen on the best violins
of JB.
The F`s are immaculately cut and are perfectly positioned.
The scroll is highlighted by a black varnish so typical of the
French makers. Two worm brackets that hold the cogs in place bear
the manufacturers brand "E. Irrot Charotte" another is
branded "Arbesant Aine Mirecourt".
A signed J.B. Vuillaume scroll in untouched (no
varnish or cogs) condition and which in all probability was used
as a shop sign has been compared to the neatly carved and well
proportioned scroll that tops this instrument. The similarities
arising in every detail, in the measurements, proportions, the
carving in the turns of the volute and its eye, the chamfers and
the carved detail of the back ridge and button are more than overwhelming
evidence in supporting this attribution. A truly magnificent top
quality French instrument with stunning looks and a sound to match.
Set up by Roger Dawson using a top quality Belgian
style bridge from Chevalets Despiau, the highly acclaimed "Barnaby"
end-pin unit and Pirastro Flexocor strings. A large number brand
"466" on the back button strongly suggests that this
instrument passed through the workshops of Tournier at some stage.
The instrument was previously owned by the French Radio Orchestra.
LOB 43in (109cm)
St. Length 41.3in (105cm)
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