Expert opinion by three foremost international authorities suggests that this violin is probably the work of a member of the Caussin family, but this has not yet been confirmed.

By all standards, this is an excellent violin. Its J. B. Vuillaume label is a replica and was likely fitted some time after the violin was made, probably by an enthusiastic and crafty dealer. The natural wear in the wood and varnish in the back would suggest it was probably made around 1860, or possibly earlier, supported by the superb rebushing of all the pegholes. All this suggests that this violin was much played and appreciated and was probably in the hands of demanding players.

It is very well-toned with properties that set it aside in a league reserved for extremely good players who make big demands on their instruments as far as projection, maturity, timbre and balance is concerned. This is one of the finest instruments currently available in South Africa and is certainly a potential career instrument for an aspiring musician.

Workmanship in this violin speaks of very high standards, certainly from the hand of a master maker. Right from the choice of materials to the accuracy of execution notably in the tracing of the purfling, the cornerwork and mitres, we see excellence. The scroll is bold and beautifully balanced. The Fs are elegant and beautifully fluted. The golden light-brown varnish with a touch of amber is translucent and compliments the materials well.

It appears that the two-piece back and ribs are from the same wood - a nicely figured maple with medium curled flame. The top is of excellent tone spruce with a straight, even, medium grain.

Dimensions :
	Length of back: 35.5 cm

Condition :
	Structurally this violin is in excellent condition. All repairs are superbly executed and cleated, conforming to very high standards. It has a completely fresh setup, including a new ebony tailpiece, chinrest and a new Despiau bridge. The fingerboard was recently reprofiled to remove pitting.

Provenance :
	Withheld

Price :

On request