Joseph Garaboeuf alias Lacombe-Vigneron, fine French violin, 1858 - violinist's recommendation!

Joseph Garaboeuf, known as Lacombe-Vigneron, produced an oeuvre famous for its outstanding artisanal quality and excellent musical properties. And this fine antique 1858 violin presents its maker as a skilled and interesting luthier from Mirecourt whose biography ranks amongst the largely unexamined chapters of violin making history.

This French instrument is an exceptionally beautiful example of how the art of violin making was practiced around 1850 in Mirecourt, the leading centre of instrument making in France of its day. Its charming historic aesthetic is due to its distinguished aged varnish with its appealing traces of use and the grain of top-quality tone woods; in particular, the tight and slightly v-shaped flames of the two-piece maple back are stunningly accentuated by the transparent, orange-brown varnish. The finely crafted purfling and the stylish and deeply carved scroll make it clear at a single glance that this violin was created by a master who could draw upon solid training and years of experience. Joseph Garaboeuf alias Lacombe-Vigneron, who was born in 1824 in Poussay, placed his stamp and the date of this instrument on a hidden spot inside the instrument. Little is known about this interesting Mirecourt luthier, but the magnificent voice of this violin, which has been kept in top condition, is an eloquent testimony to the high standards of his art: the sophisticated melting character of its sound, its warmth and a pleasantly gentle note have mellowed over the years and matured into an inimitable and distinctive voice that will satisfy the highest musical standards. After having been carefully set up in our workshop for restoration, this fine antique violin is now ready to play. The price include a certificate of authenticity by Stuttgart expert Hieronymus Köstler.