Excellent French violin. Collin-Mézin (fils), 1947, "Le Victorieux", No. 120

This high-quality French Collin-Mezin "Victorieux" violin was built in 1947 in the Collin-Mézin atelier in Mirecourt. The instrument bears the original Ch. J. B. Collin-Mézin label which is dated and hand-numbered 120 in keeping with the Collin Mézin tradition. Charles Jean Baptiste Collin-Mézin (pere) was a luminary among French violin makers of the late 19th century. He was friends with many renowned soloists of the day, won numerous awards and founded an atelier which earned a good name for itself and was later run by his son Charles Louis keeping his name. The beautiful flamed one-piece back and very symmetrical top with interesting arch of this fine French Collin-Mezin violin are distinguished by a reddish-brown oil varnish that bears minor signs from playing. The violin is preserved undamaged, in remarkable condition and has been meticulously worked over and set up by the specialists in our atelier. Its strong, warm sound is dark and yet clear and has a wonderful resonance to it. We recommend it for soloists and demanding musicians.