Nicolas Augustin Chappuy, historic French violin approx. 1770

This French violin by Nicolas Augustin Chappuy is a classic example of the work produced by the Mirecourt masters in the late 18th century, pieces which are still held in high regard today. This fine Chappuy violin’s flat table is part of its upright and slightly elongated model, and the golden-brown attractively patinated varnish shows great simplicity whilst also revealing the fine stylistic sensitivities of its creator. The gentle flames of the maple back and the charming small scroll give this historic Nicolas Augustin Chappuy master instrument particular aesthetic value. Its unusually elegant lines are a striking complement to its excellent musical characteristics: this Nicolas Chappuy violin has a very round and radiant sound which will delight artistically demanding musicians. Born around 1730, Nicolas Augustin Chappuy made history as a particularly productive luthier. In the course of his tragically rather short life, he created multiple pieces which demonstrate his admirable talent. Nicolas Chappuy spent both his apprenticeship and the final years of his successful career in his home town of Mirecourt, and in between he lived in Paris for around two decades. This instrument, which ranks amongst Nicolas Chappuy's later pieces, thus bears the stamp “N. Chappuy,” located on the button. At our specialist workshop, we set up the violin, which is preserved with most minopr repairs in perfect condition, with the meticulous care and effort that a historic violin of this quality deserves, and its excellent sound and good playing properties now shine through unimpaired. Now ready to play, it is compelling with its radiant, sweet voice of an unmistakably French 18th century character.

 

 

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