Old French Violin after Gioffredo Cappa, approx. 1920
The violin model of Gioffredo Cappa, a supposed apprentice of Nicola Amati, is one of the classical patterns that were developed in the birthplace of violin making, in Italy, even if it was not copied too often in later centuries. The instrument offered here is a good example for these interesting violins, that was built successfully by an unknown workshop in Mirecourt,...
The violin model of Gioffredo Cappa, a supposed apprentice of Nicola Amati, is one of the classical patterns that were developed in the birthplace of violin making, in Italy, even if it was not copied too often in later centuries. The instrument offered here is a good example for these interesting violins, that was built successfully by an unknown workshop in Mirecourt, France. The rounded, ccentuated edges, the wide bouts and the high archings are typical features of Gioffreod Cappa violins. The scroll and the soundholes determine the elegant style that is perfectly completed by the antique character of the reddish light-brown varnish that bears some interesting antique touches and slight traces of use. The warm and dark voice of this undamaged French violin after Cappa unfolds in perfect consultation with the Italian tradition and matches Gioffredo Cappa´s idea of a strong, voluminous sound very well.
