Fine French violin, probably by Paul Serdet, Paris, circa 1890

Presumably Paul Serdet: A high-quality professional violin for soloists, from the early period of his Paris workshop—an instrument by one of the finest Parisian masters of the generation following Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume

Fine French violin, presumably by Paul Serdet, a distinctive early work in Paul Serdet’s personal style, with first-class playing and tonal qualities

Paul Serdet (1858–1934) was one of the finest exponents of French violin making in the generation following the great Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume. In terms of the quality of his work, his musical intuition, and the originality of his style, he is regarded as being on the same high level as the slightly older Joseph Hel, with whose work interesting parallels can be observed. The Paul Serdet violin offered here is the perfect expression of his artistic signature and was likely made around 1894 as one of the first instruments following the establishment of his Paris workshop. The level of craftsmanship and the maturity of this instrument are exceptional for a young master: Paul Serdet selected tonewoods of first-class quality, immediately recognizable by the exceptionally beautiful, broad figure of the one-piece maple back. The richly applied, dark red oil varnish, which has developed a delicate craquelure over the years, and the elegant blackening of the scroll lend the violin its antique character, further enhanced by the traces of previous musicians. Inspected, fully reviewed, and prepared for playing, this French violin is in full possession of its radiant, mature, and commanding tone, characterized by its richness of overtones and its resonant, lucid substance. An instrument for soloists, which we ship worldwide with free shipping, including a certificate, a 30-day return policy, and the Corilon trade-in guarantee.

Paul Serdet, Paris, circa 1894: French violin – brief profile

• fine violin from the early period of Paul Serdet's Paris workshop
• perfect expression of his personal style
• finest craftsmanship of impressive maturity
• first-class sound, professional violin for soloists