Fine viola (38.4 cm) by Jacques-Pierre Thibout, Paris 1826 (certificate J.-J. Rampal)

Fine viola by Jacques-Pierre Thibout, Paris 1826 – a rarity for professional musicians, with a dated original label and certificate

This fine viola by Jacques-Pierre Thibout is a historic find from one of the most interesting luthiers of his time. Professional musicians will find an incomparable musical variety for the interpretation of a wide range of solo and ensemble repertoire in its mature, warm sound with a rich volume and a lovely, sweet character in the upper ranges.

Created during the best phase of Jacques-Pierre Thibout's career, this instrument reflects the mature art of the multiple award-winning master, who was famous during his lifetime for some technical innovations, but was most valued for the flawless beauty of his extremely well-crafted instruments As a kindred admirer of the French violin-making tradition of Nicolas Lupot, Thibout had acquired broad artistic horizons through his many years of collaboration with Jean Gabriel Koliker, the leading restorer in Paris. On the basis of this extensive experience, Jacques-Pierre Thibout created highly sought-after string instruments that are still held in high regard today for their excellent qualities. The Jacques-Pierre Thibout viola offered here is an extremely rare piece in this genre, not least because of its shorter back length of 38.4 cm. The dark red oil varnish, applied to a golden-yellow ground, adorns the beautiful, high-quality tonewoods that Jacques-Pierre Thibout, as a well-established master, was able to choose from. The top and back are crafted in the most sophisticated way, as a single piece, borne by a recognisably profound understanding of the special vibrational conditions in the viola body. We are selling this fine viola in excellent condition, ready to play, after a careful examination in our workshop. This includes the meaningful traces of use by excellent musicians of earlier times, which are part and parcel of a top-quality instrument of this age. Its authenticity is confirmed by the dated original label inside the body and a certificate from the renowned expert Jean-Jacques Rampal.

Jacques-Pierre Thibout, fine viola, 1826 – short portrait

• French viola by Jacques-Pierre Thibout, Paris 1826
• Finest craftsmanship, excellently preserved
• dated original label and certificate from J.-J. Rampal
• sought-after smaller size with a back length of 38.4 cm
• exceptionally good sound, for professional musicians

Important Notice for International Buyers:
Antiques over 100 years old are exempt from customs duties. No customs fees apply for shipments to the Uk and all other countries.