The tonal properties of this cello sets it aside as an instrument suitable for solo work. It represents the top-end fare that is increasingly establishing itself in the international arena where excellent workmanship, very good tone and fine European materials meet in a good, satisfying, responsive and above all, affordable, instrument. It competes with the best output of some leading master instrument builders.

This cello was made in 2011, but has been artificially "antiqued" to look much older and worn than it actually is. Today such antiquing is no longer regarded as trickery or deceit, but is perfectly acceptable and very much the norm in lutherie. It is interesting to note that antiquing is an anticipated or required technique in many of the world's important international violin making competitions and trade fairs. For example, in the 2011 Violin Society of America Violin Making Competition in Cleveland, the gold medal for a violin was awarded to an instrument fully antiqued to the extent that it was virtually indistinguishable from an authentic 18th violin.

This cello has unusually good tone, fully compliant with professional requirements - evenly balanced throughout and speaking with openness and responsiveness, easy to play on. The materials are well chosen - the sides appear to be matched with the wood of the beautiful two-piece back, showing attention to detail and to the traditions of good lutherie. Workmanship is very good throughout - tidy work in the corners and purfling neatly traced. Varnish is an amber to red-brown oil-based application that really nicely compliments the wood.

This cello convinces as a serious instrument that conforms to all the qualities one would expect from a professional cello.

Dimensions :
	Standard full size

Condition :
	Impeccable

Provenance :
	This cello was imported by Johan Grobbelaar in 2011 and was then sold to a full-time professional cellist who used it until recently.

Price :	Withheld
	The tonal properties of this cello rival those of instruments in a much higher price bracket.