Silvio Barbieri was apprenticed by his father, the important Mantuan maker, Bruno Barbieri (1922-1989) who in turn was taught by Stefano Scarampella's only student, Gaetano Gadda. Thus, as maker, Barbieri descends directly from Scarampella. He is steeped in the Mantuan school and shares his father's fascination with the instruments of Stefano Scarampella, having made several violins as direct copies of that great maker's work.

This violin, made in Mantua in 2008, has spectacular tone - rich and focused throughout the full range, with impressive projection and clear easy response. It bears the makers printed label, dated by hand and indicating that the violin is a copy of Scarampella (see photo).

It is a very attractive instrument visually, with a well-flamed two-piece back of medium curled maple with a distinct figure, also used for the ribs, neck and scroll. The top is of good tone spruce with medium to narrow growth lines. The f-hole wings are deeply fluted - much a characteristic of this maker's work. The purfling and cornerwork are tidy, showing an experienced and steady hand. The scroll is bold and well-balanced, yet very elegant in profile. This violin has a beautiful reddish-brown amber colored varnish of high transparency and great suppleness, no doubt contributing to this instrument's rich tonal response. Although clearly showing signs of use, this violin throughout is in impeccable condition without cracks or repairs.

This violin is certainly suitable for solo work,including recitals and concertos, and would be an excellent professional career instrument.

It is sold with the original sales documents from the firm of Bonhams, which confirm it as the work of this maker.

Dimensions :
	Length of back: 35.7 cm Bouts:16.8 cm, 11.4 cm, 20.8 cm

Condition :
	Impeccable, near mint

Provenance :
	This violin is the property of Johan Grobbelaar. Earlier provenance withheld.

Price :	On application
	This violin holds the record for the highest auction price (in £ GBP) ever paid for a violin by this maker.