Umberto Lanaro, Padova, Italian viola (certificate by Robert Bein)

Umberto Lanaro, violin maker, patterned his instruments after his own models; these in turn were based upon the best traditions of Italian violinmaking

Those who, like Italian luthier Umberto Lanaro, choose to rely solely on the strong reputation of their work and consistently avoid the exhibitions at violin-making competitions are very confident people – and rightfully so, as the extensive oeuvre of this master luthier conclusively demonstrates. Born in 1930, Umberto Lanaro patterned his instruments after his own models; these in turn were based upon the best traditions of Italian violinmaking, and Umberto Lanaro's work ranks amongst its most interesting modern manifestations. This Italian viola, a large instrument with a body of 41.8 cm in length, articulates an unmistakably individual character in its sound. It has a resonant fullness and a slightly sweet note which will satisfy professional standards. Premium artisanry can be seen in the expressive carving of the scroll, the clean lines of the sound holes and the exceptionally well crafted purfling. The finely-grained spruce of the top and close flames of the two-piece maple back are complemented by a thick coat of oil varnish in a typically Italian style. In addition to Umberto Lanaro's label and brand mark, included is a certificate of authenticity from Robert Bein confirming the heritage of this full-blooded instrument. We offer it with its original fittings, including the original pegs and a charmingly ornamented tailpiece. This Italian viola made its way to us in perfect and undamaged condition aside from minor touch-ups to the varnish, and the restoration specialists in our studio who set it up completely were won over by its magnificent condition.

Like all our instruments and bows, this includes our trade-in guarantee and an optional certificate of appraisal.