Although unlabelled and with no specific identifiers linking it to any maker, there is no doubt that this is a French instrument.

The first thing to be said is that it is very well-toned with a healthy, robust and powerful sound that speaks with ease and which makes it a pleasure to play. It was discovered in a state of considerable neglect some years ago and was only recently fully restored to the extent that is now structurally secure with many decades of musical service ahead.

One is immediately struck by the exceptionally nice choice of materials, notably in the maple - a well-figured wood with a narrow straight curl, ostensibly used for the all the maple components. The one-piece back, ribs, neck and scroll are perfectly matched - a requirement in high-end lutherie. The top is of medium to open grained tone spruce reflecting French tastes rather than Italian or German. This instrument has been entirely revarnished - unavoidable, since some moron had previously stripped it and revarnished it very badly.

It remains a violin of considerable merit, demonstrating high standards in it making. Although the restoration and revarnishing impacts on its value, it would certainly please a discerning player very much, particularly if such a musician is more concerned with tonal response than with prettiness.

Dimensions :
	Length of back: 36.4 cm

Condition :
	This violin has been fully restored from a condition of considerable neglect. Other than two repaired cracks in the table, along with two wingcracks, it can be said now to be structurally completely secure.

Provenance :
	Owned by Johan Grobbelaar

Price :

On request