Apart from his own personal output as violinmaker, J. J. van de Geest imported 'trade' (commercial) instruments aimed at the student and amateur market from mainly Germany, Holland and Japan. Such instruments were usually of reasonably good quality and he always labelled them as Made for J J van de Geest, followed by additional information, such as a serial number, date, address etc. These instruments were NOT made by J. J. van de Geest, but were the output of large trade studios (a euphemism for 'factories'). These instruments (including a large number of violas, cellos and child instruments), emerge all over South Africa.

After completing his apprenticeship as violinmaker in Holland under the great master, Eberle, Jacobus Jan van de Geest (1899 - 1974) was for 18 years Master Craftsman and Chef d'atelier for London's most important violin company - Hart & Son, under George Hart. Here he was in charge of assessments and repairs to the world's finest instruments. In London - and in fact in all of England and elsewhere - he established a reputation for supreme expertise and craftsmanship that stood him to credit for the rest of his life. When Hart & Son closed down in 1938, Van de Geest emigrated from London to Johannesburg, where he became the most important single force in South Africa's violin world.

This violin is largely representative of the excellent quality associated with van de Geest imports. It is probably of German origin and workmanship throughout is refined with attention to detail. The reddish brown varnish compliments the wood well. The two-piece back, ribs, neck and scroll appear to be of the same mildly flamed maple with a medium curl. The top is of finely grained tone spruce. The Fs are crisp and elegant with nicely fluted palettes. The bridge is still the original, stamped J J van de Geest

This violin is responsive and well-toned and speaks with ease. It is a pleasure to play on and should open the door to great progress for any aspiring young soloist.

Dimensions :
	Length of back: 35.4 cm

Condition :
	Impeccable

Provenance :
	Withheld

Price :

On request