There is very little doubt that this violin was imported into South Africa by the important Dutch violinmaker and authority, J J van de Geest (1899-1974), who was a formidable force in the South Africa violin world. He had been the studio foreman and principal craftsman for George Hart & Son in London from 1919 to 1938 - a highly respected and knowledgeable individual who had been apprenticed by Eberle. He established the 1956 certificate stating that this is the work of Francesco Grancino. He emigrated to South Africa in 1938.
Given this provenance and the fact that this violin had two Sartory bows with it (which I eventually bought and sold in London) I believe that it is extremely probable that this is Francesco Grancino's work. It has been seen by several visiting international experts and its authenticity was never disputed.
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Dimensions :
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Length of back: 35.7 cm
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Condition :
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I have not had the opportunity to examine this violin thoroughly, but on the surface of things all appears to be good.
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