Charles und Samuel Thompson, English violin, approx. 1780

This late 18th century violin is most likely the work of Charles und Samuel Thompson who probably made it in their atelier “At the Sign of the Bass Violin” in St. Paul's Churchyard, London. The instrument is based on a Jacob Stainer model which had a profound influence on the styles of English violin making in the 18th century: it has a conspicuously wide arch along the central section of the top and back as well as characteristic sound holes. The drawn-on purfling is a detail that is very typical for Charles und Samuel Thompson violins of this period and heritage. The attractive flamed maple back and charming patina of the varnish indicate the top-quality craftsmanship, while the sophisticated, nuanced sound is evenly balanced across all of the strings — bright, warm, mellow and very rich in overtones, with a somewhat sweet character and a gentle response. This Charles und Samuel Thompson violin is in excellent condition for its age and has had only a few and very insignificant repairs. It was looked over by our luthier and is ready to play, perfectly suitable for baroque music.

 

 

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