Archive

More detailed information about stringed instruments and the history of violin making.

Rembert Wurlitzer and the travels of antique violins

J. & A. Beare, Beares, London: expertise during changing times

Eric Blot, the expert of Cremona and Italian violin making

Marcus Klimke: a highly decorated luthier

The violin: How to select a violin, provenance, value and appraisal

Bernard Millant and Le Canu-Millant, Paris: lutherie and expertise

International violin making competitions: Ente Triennale Cremona, Concours Etienne Vatelot, VSA competition, Mittenwald violin making competition and other contests

Modern Italian viola, Stefano Conia, Cremona 1985 (certificate Stefano Conia)

This fine modern Italian viola by Cremonese luthier Stefano Conia was made in 1985 in Cremona. This viola is one of the earlier instruments made by Stefano Conia, who studied with Sgarabotto, Morassi and Bissolotti. It is a larger instrument made on a Testre model with a body length of 41.2 cm. Its unmistakable Italian appearance perfectly demonstrates its Cremonese provenance. The soundholes are cut in a very characteristical shape, the dominant, large scroll and the soft and rich, orange-brown oil varnish, that shows slight craquellation are true expressions of a mature Italian style, that is underlined by the self-confident choice of tonewoods. Especially the medium grained spruce of the top has perfect regularity, the one-piece back cut from the slab is an even more perfectly done play with nature, as its delicate mild flaming seems to be grown especially to match the shape of this instrument. But what is all aesthetical virtuosity against the great acoustic qualities this Stefano Conia viola is featuring, with a floating, warm, bright and sweet voice that is more than recommendable, precise and perfectly balanced across the strings. We offer this rare quality Cremona viola with minor varnish flaws and retouch in undamaged, excellent condition, completely worked over by our luthier, in immediate playing condition. Included in the price is a certificate of authenticity by Stefano Conia, Cremona and the original bridge by Stefano Conia.