Vittorio Zuzzi e figlio, Venetian violin

Venetian master Vittorio Zuzzi (1880-1945) ranked amongst the luthiers of a generation that owed a great deal to the modern Italian tradition dating back to Eugenio Degani and Ettore Siega. Since his repair work was highly sought after, Vittorio Zuzzi only made a comparatively small number of his own instruments, but his pieces are regarded as particularly successful representatives of the Venetian style in the first half of the 20th century. This violin, which has its original “Zuzzi e figlio” label, is a delight with its large, warm and voluminous sound of unmistakably Italian character. The distinctive lines of the moderately-grained spruce top complement the dynamic and asymmetrical flaming of the one-piece maple back; these woods were chosen with an eye to sophisticated aesthetic considerations. The thick oil varnish was applied at a later date but is also undeniably Italian in its provenance thanks to its remarkable texture and luminosity. The gentle arch of the table and the purfling close to the edges of the instrument highlight Vittorio Zuzzi's careful approach and experienced artisanry, traits that also express a spirited charm in the attractive and expressive scroll. The very affordable price for an Italian violin of this quality is due to the fact that the varnish is not original and minor damage on the ribs caused by the chin rest was filled. These flaws are inconsequential, however, given the full breadth of musical qualities that this lovely instrument offers. It has been set up by our luthier and is ready to play.