German violin after Grancino, circa 1930

This exquisitely crafted violin is a testimony to the rich expertise and expressive craftsmanship of an unknown German luthier in the 1920s. It was clearly inspired by a classic Italian design and was probably patterned after the work of Milan luthier Giovanni Grancino (died circa 1726). Whilst Grancino's works are still highly esteemed today because of their very good acoustic properties despite their somewhat simpler construction, this violin features consistently high quality. The deep flames on the two-piece maple back and the even grain of the spruce used for the table are both premium tone woods; they are coated with an orange-brown oil varnish and covered in tasteful and well-done antiquing. A steady hand carved the scroll with a great love of detail as well as the pronounced arch of the body. The aesthetic promise made by this violin of rare beauty is honoured by its large and exceptionally powerful sound, which features both clarity and an interesting dark note. This instrument has been kept in perfect condition, and our luthiers have completely set it up and made ready to play. We warmly recommend this lovely violin.