Archive

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

Eric Blot, the expert of Cremona and Italian violin making

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

“The finest approach to handling wood”: Hieronymus Köstler

James Tubbs: the classic name in English bow making

Violin makers and masters: archive "V-Z"

François Nicolas Voirin and the new French violin bow

Patrick Robin – a master of teaching and the craft

French 3/4 violin, c.1890 Breton model

The antique French 3/4 violin is an indeed beautiful "Breton" model violin of the late 19th century. The violin was made around 1890 in Mirecourt. The name of Francois Breton was purchased by several 19th century French makers to use in their instruments, among them JTL and Laberte. This violin likely originates from the JTL ateliers. Top and back are made of two pieces. The bright varnish is an especially attractive and luminous spirit varnish of an intense dark orange color, with a deep scratch on top in good condition. The 3/4 Breton violin is crackfree and in perfect condition. It has been set up by our professional luthiers with a new bridge, soundpost and strings and is in full playing condition. Its warm, dark sound is somewhat mellow, well-balanced and with beautiful resonance in the higher ranges.

Order a certificate of appraisal with this violin, the certificate option is available in the shopping cart.