Antique French violin, probably Jules Grandjon c.1870

Antique French violin from Mirecourt, a historic instrument dating back to around 1870 that was clearly crafted in the tradition of the Grandjon dynasty of violin makers. With its powerful and radiant voice full of timbre and excellent resonance, it is an outstanding choice, especially for solo performance. For many generations, masters from the Grandjon family worked as luthiers in Mirecourt, the historic centre of French violin making. Jules Joseph Grandjon is the most well-known member of the family; he initially spent several years honing his craft in Paris before opening a large atelier in his hometown. It served as the veritable birthplace of multiple influential luthiers in the late 19th century, such as Joseph Hel and Paul Bailly, who themselves established successful workshops alongside the great J. B. Vuillaume and reached great international acclaim. Their common foundation was the high musical and artisanal standards of the Grandjon school, which an unknown master interpreted perfectly in this violin. The one-piece maple back with its delicate flames and the very even grain of the premium spruce top are the work of a demanding artisanal craftsman who followed traditional standards, using great care and experience to select his materials. His well-trained hand produced the exceptionally well-executed arching of the table and the back, cleanly carved sound holes, and the excellent purfling with delicate beesting corners. He put tasteful antiquing on the luminous red-orange-brown varnish upon a golden-yellow background. At our atelier for restoration, this crackfree Grandjon violin has been checked and approved; this instrument is good condition and with a magnificent sound is recommended at the price. 30 days returns, free worldwide shipping.

Jules Granjon violin, brief profile:

• large Stradivari model in excellent, crack-free condition
• fine workmanship in the details
• large, powerful sound – mature and clear
• bright orange-red varnish with subtle antiquing