A masterful violin by any musical or aesthetic standard, exemplifying the bold confidence of a master’s hand. Perfect tonal balance, with fine projection and multiple layers of tonal colors, this is an artist’s violin, suitable for solo performances as well as in the chamber ensemble. The long pattern of the outline is deceptive; instead of making the instrument more difficult to play than its counterparts with shorter bodies, the larger top plate speaks more loudly and with less effort. The highly polished top layers of deep red varnish gradually relax to reveal a surprisingly brilliant golden ground coat where the instrument has been touched by players for over a century. Thin, delicate purfling encircles the edgework and decorates the organic, asymmetrical outline.

Labelled:

N. Lupot Luthier de la Musique du Roi
et de l'Ecole Royale de Musique.
Paris: 1822

Back Length: 362mm
Upper Bout: 168mm
Center Bout: 115mm
Lower Bout: 207mm

The back is of two pieces of maple cut on the quarter of narrow width flame extending laterally from the center joint. The ribs and scroll are of similar maple. The top is of two pieces of spruce cut on the quarter of medium width grain widening slightly at the flanks. The varnish is orange-red over a golden ground. Top soundpost patch; Scroll graft.