Italian 7/8 violin, Carlo Melloni, Bologna 1932 (certificate by Eric Blot)

This Italian 7/8 violin is a magnificent instrument for small handed players crafted in a typically Bolognese style, a tradition which is one of the more interesting movements in contemporary violin making history. Its maker, Carlo Melloni, was born in 1904 and left behind only a very small oeuvre. Little is known about his life and career other than the fact that he was an instructor of violin making at the Liuteria Italiana Luigi Mozzani from 1929 to 1933. Luigi Mozzani, who had gained fame as a virtuoso guitarist and composer, set up this school in an attempt to establish an experimental teaching workshop. His plans only succeeded for three years under the difficult conditions of the fascist dictatorship in power. The institute closing also apparently ended Carlo Melloni's career as a luthier, which makes this violin a historical rarity among modern instruments. At the same time, it provides an insight into a fascinating master. The excellent moderately-grained spruce of the top and the one-piece back of beautiful maple with gentle and flowing flames have a few charming irregularities which are typical of the distinctive aesthetic of premium Italian instruments. The attractive luminous orange-reddish oil varnish has been preserved in unusually good shape with very few traces of use. A small and solidly executed repair to the lower part of the back has no effect whatsoever on the excellent condition of this 7/8-sized violin. The instrument is an outstanding choice for demanding musicians with smaller hands. Its comfortable playing characteristics and its bright, ringing sound open up a broad range of musical interpretations. The price includes a certificate of authenticity by Eric Blot, Cremona.

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