Italian violin, Naples, late 19th century - repaired by Paolo de Barbieri

Over many decades, violinist's fascination with Italian violins has remained unwavering. Italy's good reputation is not solely due to great historic names such as Stradivari and Guarneri, as this quality 19th century Italian violin confirms. It was crafted in the late 19th century by an unknown master, probably in Naples. Its large scroll was carved in an unmistakably Italian style; the interplay of colours on the golden-yellow oil varnish with charming orange tones shows taste and mature artisanry. It seems as if this violin met with some misfortune around 1970, a resulting bassbar crack was meticulously repaired. The highly esteemed Paolo de Barbieri in Genoa performed a larger restoration that allows us to offer this 19th century Italian violin at such a low price - and documented his repair work with a dated label. The scroll, a very expressive Barbieri work, and the bass bar were replaced at the same time, as can be seen by a stamp from Paolo Barbieri. This Italian violin thus ranks amongst the instruments which have survived misfortune and restoration in outstanding tonal condition. It has been completely set up and is now ready to play, and we recommend it to sophisticated musicians as an especially economical opportunity to acquire a bright, resonant and large sound. The clarity and brilliance in its voice are compelling.