This violin, made in 1888, is in excellent structural condition with absolutely no cracks in the top or back. It was well-appreciated by previous musicians as it shows all the signs of much use and evidently was well-looked after.

Paul Bailly was apprenticed by Jules Gaillard and worked for both J.B.Vuillaume and his brother Nicolas Vuillaume. After working in the United States and various places in France, he eventually set up his workshop in Paris.

The label corresponds to Bailly's known labels. It bears the allocated number 525 and the date written by hand. Significantly it is signed on the wood in the centre back. This signature and written information corresponds with Bailly's signatures in other instruments of his and it can be said with confidence that this violin is his work.

This violin shows discernment throughout. The exceptional choice of materials reflect Bailly's preference for well-figured wood in the back and medium grained tone spruce in the top. One is immediately struck by the exceptionally beautiful back of a well-flamed maple with a broad uneven curl, repeated in the ribs. Furthermore this violin reflects the refined craftsmanship associated by Paul Bailly's work, evident in every aspect of its making, notably in the purfling and cornerwork and in the impeccable mitres. The F's are refined and balanced with mild fluting of the palettes. Importantly the beautiful light golden amber oil varnish is the original and despite some wear in the usual places, it remains fully untouched.

This violin is responsive and speaks with clarity and projection.

Dimensions :
	Length of back: 35.8 cm

Condition :

This violin has had a complete neck button graft, replacing the neck button with new wood grafted several centimetres into the inside of the back. This would have necessitated the removal of the back. An internal examination confirms this, showing the new wood just below the neck block. Also, the neck block was replaced, probably at the same time. (Internal photos are available to show this graft and the neck block). This work may have been necessitated as a result of dropping the violin causing the neck button to break loose. A crack in the rib directly next to the neck root (treble side) would confirm this. This crack is secured internally by the neck block and is perfectly secure. Also, a small section of the back's edge, just below the endpin, has been restored with fresh wood. It can be stated with confidence that this violin is structurally perfectly secure.

Provenance :
	Provenance withheld

Price :

On request