This violin, which is a copy of the work of Nicola Amati, is superbly toned with rich clear and powerful sound, making it easy and a pleasure to play on. The JTL workshops produced many different models in different standards, and this is the first and only clearly Amati copy I have encountered from this studio, which is labelled as such. It seems to have been made around the late-19th century at about 1880. This violin is fitted with a generic Amati label which also states that it is part of the Sarasate professional series produced by the firm and it has a small JTL label in it, confirming the authorship. The model identifier is stamped onto the neck button and back - all in French (see photos).

This violin, with its clear and strong tone, is suitable for solo performance. It was personally selected for an advanced student by a foremost violin teacher who now teaches in the USA - attesting to the violin's tonal properties, which remain impressive to this day.

The two-piece back, ribs and scroll are of good maple, evidently of the same piece of wood. The top is of medium-grained tone spruce. The purfling and F's are sharp and neat. Workmanship throughout is fine and well-executed, on a par with the best JTL instruments. The varnish is a light golden-brown.

Dimensions :
	Length of back: 35.7 cm

Condition :

Although this instrument is in excellent condition, it has been repaired to a crack in the top, emanating upward and downward from the treble F. This repair is superbly executed, complete with internal cleats, done by the reputable English maker, Timothy Crake, whose bridge is still on the violin. Furthermore, all four peg holes have been rebushed on both sides, attesting that the violin is not recent and has been much used. Other than the above it can be said confidently that this violin is structurally secure and in superb condition.

Provenance :
	Withheld

Price :

On request