Everything about this instrument speaks of a very high level of workmanship and attention to detail, pointing to a craftsman of high order. It is truly difficult to ascertain this cello's real age, because it appears to have been revarnished some time long ago and much of the aging and wear patterns that normally can be seen in the original varnish has been lost. However, this cello is probably much older than it seems to be and, all things considered, probably dates from the late 18th century or into the early 19th century.

The label ascribes it to the maker, 'Laurentius Guadagnini', dated 1743. Even though this is an attractive idea, this cello simply doesn't appear to be that old, unless it hadn't be used for many decades.

One consideration in establishing its true age is that it has a neck graft, supremely well performed and virtually invisible. These point to a workmanship of a very high order. The scroll itself is a work of beauty - refined and superbly balanced. The Fs are elegant and masterfully done. The arching is full and perfectly graded.

An interesting feature is the four ebony holding pins in the four front corners. Although not associated with any particular maker, some French makers did this for export to hot or humid climates.

The choice of materials show discernment. The two-piece back, sides, and scroll appear to be of the same wood - mildly flamed maple of medium to narrow curl. Considering the neck graft, one can assume that the neck is a replacement, probably done in the early 19th century. The wood in the neck was carefully chosen to match the maple in the rest of the instrument. The top is a beautiful spruce of straight medium grain, narrow at the centre and widening slightly to the flanks. The varnish is an attractive golden light-brown and oil-based.

Dimensions :
	Length of back: 76.5 cm

Condition :

This cello has had a neck graft - extremely well done. It has also had work done to the button and a repair to a minor crack at the lower half of the bass flank on the top. There is a minor crack to the rib where it joins the neck, treble side. None of these repairs compromise the cello's structural integrity. Also, the cello has been entirely revarnished, already long ago. The reason for this is not clear but it is very well done to the high standard one would associate with a master craftsman. Other than these this cello is in almost perfect condition.

Provenance :
	Withheld

Price :

On request