Italian viola, Carlo Giudicci 1945

Crafted in 1945, this exceptional Italian viola by Carlo Giudicci has a rich character and tonal qualities of uncommon distinction. As a classic "liutaio," Carlo Giudicci made both plucked and bowed string instruments at his workshop in Varese, which is why his total oeuvre of the latter comprises only 36 violins, eight celli and 16 violas. Consequently, this viola is a true rarity in the world of modern Italian violin making, and it has thus earned our wholehearted recommendation for professional musicians because of its warm, rich, bright sound with great resonance and perfect balance. The distinctive model features rounded upper bouts, narrow and delicately carved sound holes, and an expressive scroll in a typically Italian style. It is a successful and harmonious reflection of the unique style of "Mezet Varisii," as Carlo Giudicci called himself. A rich, orange-brown oil varnish coast the premium-quality tone woods and features delicate crackling which gives the instrument a sophisticated historic aesthetic. The even grain of the spruce top and the attractive deep flames of the two-piece maple back are set off by exquisitely crafted purfling which demonstrates the talent and the long years of experience of a mature master. Determining the influences that contributed to such a distinctive artisanal language is a highly interesting question that the history of making violins has yet to answer. What is known, however, is that Carlo Giudici represented the third generation in his family atelier: his grandfather established the family tradition as a bass maker. But Carlo Giudicci studied in Barcelona and São Paulo, showing that his career covered more than just the standard stations that European luthiers generally follow. The restoration specialists at our atelier for restoration studied this undamaged and perfectly-preserved instrument with great interest. They have painstakingly set it up and made it ready to play.

 

 

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