Justin Maucotel, French violin, circa 1840

This attractive early 19th century French violin, a splendid instrument dating back to around 1840, radiates an expressive splendour and playful elegance. The original stamp reads “Justin Maucotel,” a mark that in all likelihood can attributed to Jean Baptiste Justin Maucotel. He was a luthier in the traditional violin-making town of Mirecourt, but practically nothing is known about Justin Maucotel other than his birth and death dates, 1809-1876. A few instruments which bear his stamp are his only surviving legacy. This Maucotel violin is heavily and tastefully ornamented, with charmingly cut sound holes and a rich golden-orange varnish featuring a colourful aesthetic and delightful historic patina. It also has double purfling, which is one of the most striking kinds of details. The neck and scroll have been replaced, they were made by a later hand of a Frenchman. The attractive and painstakingly crafted instrument has a compellingly mature, powerful and radiant voice that is dark and silvery with great precision. In keeping with its age, just one short repair was made to the table at the saddle, this repair was carried out with most precision and does not have any effect whatsoever on the sound and the playing properties of this instrument. This splendid Justin Maucotel is now ready to play after having been meticulously set up by our specialists, and it is ideal for musicians who who will appreciate playing this truly attractive and nonconformist personality of a violin.

 

 

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