Domenico Montagnana ‘Farina’ cello 1730 poster
Domenico Montagnana was possibly the greatest cello maker in history, and the 1730 'Farina' was made during the period when he was at the height of his powers. Unlike most Montagnana cellos, it has never been cut down and retains its original proportions. Now owned by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the instrument has a very powerful sound with a wide array of colours. Previous owners have included May Mukle, one of the first successful female cello soloists.
'The abundant famous Venetian varnish is of a rich, dark red colour, with a fascinating array of textures and patinas. In the areas where the varnish has worn off, a beautiful golden amber ground is revealed. As with most uncut Montagnana cellos, the outline is wide in the upper bouts and corners, and deeply swept in at the C-bouts, with big, broad lower bouts.' - John Waddle and Steve Sirr in the July 2025 edition of The Strad.
'When making recordings, the sound engineer has to turn down my microphone because it sounds up to eight decibels louder than any other cello' - Ilya Finkelshteyn, principal cellist, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra
Find out how more than 30 luthiers collaborated to build a copy of the c.1730 ‘Farina’ in the November 2023 Strad magazine article, "COPYING A MONTAGNANA CELLO – Robin Aitchison reports from the annual Oberlin Violin Makers Workshop"
***Don't miss our Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Great Instruments 3
This third volume in The Strad’s Great Instruments series brings together the finest scholarship, research and analysis by some of the world’s leading experts on stringed instruments. Among the highlights are a detailed look at the 1741 ‘Vieuxtemps’ violin by Guarneri ‘del Gesù’, including an acoustic analysis by Joseph Curtin and an interview with its player, Anne Akiko Meyers. There’s also a rare examination of the ‘Boissier, Sarasate’, one of two Stradivari violins formerly owned by Pablo Sarasate, which rarely leaves its current home, the Real Conservatorio Superior de Música de Madrid. And we examine some of the most extraordinary restoration jobs on fine instruments in history: the ‘Mara’ Stradivari cello, almost consigned to a watery grave, and the ‘Paravicini’ Stradivari, which took more than a year to restore to its former glory.
Full list of featured instruments
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Antonio Stradivari ‘Mara’ cello, 1711
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Antonio Stradivari ‘Cecil’ violin, 1724
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violin, 1732
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Giuseppe Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ ‘Paravicini’ violin, 1734
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Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume ‘Evangelists’ quartet, 1863
Montagnana c.1720–Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ c.1742 ‘Paderewski, Wendling’ violin
This is a unique instrument with a body by Montagnana and a top plate by Guarneri 'del Gesù'. Artists such as Vilde Frang, Isabelle Faust and Augustin Dumay have unanimously praised the violin's sound, recognising its unmistakably ‘del Gesù’ character, with dark basses, great projection and a particularly warm and open E string.
'The large Venetian model combined with the distinctive ‘del Gesù’ front arching, well-preserved thickness and f-holes, offers a particularly attractive and inspiring reference model.' - Balthazar Soulier in the January 2025 issue.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here*** 
BUNDLE-The Best of Trade Secrets 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6
Returned or Flawed Posters
We have a number of rolled posters that have been returned or have minor defects, which can be obtained at a massively discounted cost. These are ideal for students or makers who do not require pristine posters to work from. Although some posters are damaged, this is usually to the sides of the posters and not across the printed images.
These posters are limited. Please contact us directly if the poster you require is not on our list: services@thestradshop.com
For our Tailored Folded Poster Bundle, click here
Our rolled posters are shipped separately from other products. One tube can hold up to 10 posters. Save on postage costs by purchasing up to 10 posters per tube today.
Great Instruments 2
***BACK IN STOCK!***
In 2011 The Strad published a 92-page collection of articles on some of the finest violins, violas and cellos to grace its pages over the previous decade. As well as examinations of historic works such as the Amati 'King', thought to be the oldest cello in existence, and Stradivari's 1713 'Huberman' violin, now played by Joshua Bell, this new collection introduces articles on double basses by Rocca, Gofriller and Gasparo da Salò. With high-quality photographs throughout, this is a must for anyone interested in the history and development of beautiful stringed instruments.
Full list of featured instruments
- c.1550 Gasparo da Salò double bass
- Mid-16th century Andrea Amati ‘King’ cello
- 1686 Francesco Rugeri violin
- 1710 Antonio Stradivari ‘Baron Rothschild, Gore-Booth’ cello
- 1713 Antonio Stradivari ‘Huberman’ violin
- c.1720 Matteo Gofriller double bass
- 1726 Antonio Stradivari ‘Saveuse’ cello
- 1743 Giuseppe Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ ‘Brusilow’ violin
- 1767 José Contreras violin
- 1774 Giovanni Battista Guadagnini ‘Salabue’, ‘Berta’ violin
- c.1851 Giuseppe Rocca double bass
- 1865 Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume cello
Great Instruments
Every generation of violin makers has sought to analyse and understand the classic forms, and, for the past 122 years, the violin world's leading experts have assessed the latest research into the finest instruments in the pages of The Strad. Great Instruments includes 15 authoritative and beautifully illustrated articles from the past ten years, which provide unique insights into some of the world's most celebrated stringed instruments.
Full list of featured instruments
- c.1566 Andrea Amati Violin
- c.1600 Brothers Amati Cello
- 1618 Henry Jaye Viol
- c.1650 Jacob Stainer Tenor viola
- 1709 Antonio Stradivari 'Viotti' violin
- 1715 Antonio Stradivari 'Titian' violin
- 1716 Antonio Stradivari 'Messiah' violin
- 1717 Domenico Montagnana Violin
- 1717 Pietro Giacomo Rogeri Cello
- 1721 Antonio Stradivari 'Kruse' violin
- 1735 Guarneri 'del Gesu' 'Plowden' violin
- 1736 Carlo Bergonzi Violin
- 1736 Guarneri 'del Gesu 'Cessole', 'Teja-Ferni'
- 1740 Domenico Montagnana Cello
- 1808 Niclas Lupot Violin
The Best of Trade Secrets 6
The April 2005 edition of The Strad saw the first in a new regular section: Trade Secrets, in which violin and bow makers would share the technical tips and tricks that they’d worked out for themselves and wanted to share with their peers. Almost two decades later, Trade Secrets is still a mainstay of the magazine, having featured over 200 fully illustrated parts of the making process penned by more than 140 makers around the world. This latest collection brings together 35 of the most recent articles, drawn from the magazine’s pages since the pandemic year of 2020.
Violin Virtuosos: From Paganini to the 21st Century by Henry Roth
Renowned critic Henry Roth brings his formidable knowledge and enthusiasm to bear on some of the greatest violinists in history. Paganini, Thibaud and Huberman rub shoulders with the likes of Isaac Stern and Itzhak Perlman in his comprehensive survey, which also provides an unusual history of the instrument itself. Paperback. 392pp.
California Classics Books; First Printing edition (March 1997)
BUNDLE – In Focus and In Focus 2
The In Focus anthologies brings together many of the world’s most fascinating stringed instruments, with commentaries by today’s top instrument experts.
Both books feature exceptional high-quality photographs for every featured instrument – front, back and scroll – and will provide inspiration for today’s makers and anyone who enjoys the beauty and variety of stringed instruments.
This bundle includes:
- In Focus (with new limited edition cover)
- In Focus 2
Folded Poster Tailored Bundle
FOLDED VERSIONS
Choose any two or more of The Strad's folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each.
Watch a video of the selection here
Antonio Stradivari ‘Boissier, Sarasate’ violin 1713 poster
Made during Antonio's Stradivari's so-called 'golden period', the 1713 'Boissier, Sarasate' is in an excellent state of preservation. Housed in the museum of the Madrid Royal Conservatoire, it has rarely been played since it was left to the music school by its last owner, the Spanish virtuoso Pablo Sarasate. This poster includes full outlines and measurements taken from a state-of-the-art 3D scan of the instrument.
'The surface retains a very good amount of varnish. It is remarkable that it has not been ‘protected’ with a layer of French polish, making it ever more outstanding and appreciated in today’s shop standards. The colour of the varnish is a light reddish-brown over Stradivari’s wonderful golden ground.' – Roberto Jardón Rico in the January 2024 issue of The StradOur posters are shipped separately from other products. One tube can hold up to 10 posters. Save on postage costs by purchasing up to 10 posters per tube today.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Antonio Stradivari ‘Boissier, Sarasate’ Violin 1713 poster – FOLDED VERSION
FOLDED VERSION
Made during Antonio's Stradivari's so-called 'golden period', the 1713 'Boissier, Sarasate' is in an excellent state of preservation. Housed in the museum of the Real Conservatorio Superior de Música de Madrid, it has rarely been played since it was left to the conservatoire by its last owner, the Spanish virtuoso Pablo Sarasate. This poster includes full outlines and measurements taken from a state-of-the-art 3D scan of the instrument.
'The surface retains a very good amount of varnish. It is remarkable that it has not been ‘protected’ with a layer of French polish, making it ever more outstanding and appreciated in today’s shop standards. The colour of the varnish is a light reddish-brown over Stradivari’s wonderful golden ground.' – Roberto Jardón Rico in the January 2024 issue of The Strad
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Domenico Montagnana ‘Farina’ cello 1730 – FOLDED VERSION
FOLDED VERSION
Domenico Montagnana was possibly the greatest cello maker in history, and the 1730 'Farina' was made during the period when he was at the height of his powers. Unlike most Montagnana cellos, it has never been cut down and retains its original proportions. Now owned by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, the instrument has a very powerful sound with a wide array of colours. Previous owners have included May Mukle, one of the first successful female cello soloists.
'The abundant famous Venetian varnish is of a rich, dark red colour, with a fascinating array of textures and patinas. In the areas where the varnish has worn off, a beautiful golden amber ground is revealed. As with most uncut Montagnana cellos, the outline is wide in the upper bouts and corners, and deeply swept in at the C-bouts, with big, broad lower bouts.' - John Waddle and Steve Sirr in the July 2025 edition of The Strad.
'When making recordings, the sound engineer has to turn down my microphone because it sounds up to eight decibels louder than any other cello' - Ilya Finkelshteyn, principal cellist, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra
Find out how more than 30 luthiers collaborated to build a copy of the c.1730 ‘Farina’ in the November 2023 Strad magazine article, "COPYING A MONTAGNANA CELLO – Robin Aitchison reports from the annual Oberlin Violin Makers Workshop"
***Don't miss our Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
***Product not included in any current discount offers***
Montagnana c.1720–Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ c.1742 ‘Paderewski, Wendling’ violin – FOLDED VERSION
FOLDED VERSION
This is a unique instrument with a body by Montagnana and a top plate by Guarneri 'del Gesù'. Artists such as Vilde Frang, Isabelle Faust and Augustin Dumay have unanimously praised the violin's sound, recognising its unmistakably ‘del Gesù’ character, with dark basses, great projection and a particularly warm and open E string.
'The large Venetian model combined with the distinctive ‘del Gesù’ front arching, well-preserved thickness and f-holes, offers a particularly attractive and inspiring reference model.' - Balthazar Soulier in the January 2025 issue.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Carlo Bergonzi ‘Salabue, Martzy’ violin 1733 poster – FOLDED VERSION
FOLDED VERSION
This stunning instrument, still in immaculate condition, bears all the hallmarks of the luthier Carlo Bergonzi, who moved into Antonio Stradivari's workshop following the latter's death. The famed instrument collector Count Cozio di Salabue called it 'my largest and most beautiful Bergonzi'. It was later used as the principal performing instrument of Hungarian virtuoso Johanna Martzy (1924–79).
'The f-holes of the ‘Salabue, Martzy’ are bold and distinctive. In concept, they derive from a Stradivari model but the stems are more angled and the wings are broader' - Jason Price in the July 2024 edition of The Strad.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Carlo Bergonzi ‘Salabue, Martzy’ violin 1733 poster
This stunning instrument, still in immaculate condition, bears all the hallmarks of the luthier Carlo Bergonzi, who moved into Antonio Stradivari's workshop following the latter's death. The famed instrument collector Count Cozio di Salabue called it 'my largest and most beautiful Bergonzi'. It was later used as the principal performing instrument of Hungarian virtuoso Johanna Martzy (1924–79).
'The f-holes of the ‘Salabue, Martzy’ are bold and distinctive. In concept, they derive from a Stradivari model but the stems are more angled and the wings are broader' - Jason Price in the July 2024 edition of The Strad.
Our rolled posters are shipped separately from other products. One tube can hold up to 10 posters. Save on postage costs by purchasing up to 10 posters per tube today.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
‘De Munck’ Stradivari cello 1730 poster
This well-presented cello played by Emanuel Feuermann and Steven Isserlis is striking for the originality that created a new cello form. It is currently on loan to Danjulo Ishizaka. Includes full measurements.
'The marvellous "de Munck" is striking in the originality of its slender form. The dominant feature is the large centre bouts, which curve in as deeply as those of the larger B form and are in fact slightly longer' – John Dilworth in the June 2000 issue of The Strad
Our posters are shipped separately from other products. One tube can hold up to 10 posters. Save on postage costs by purchasing up to 10 posters per tube today.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Antonio Stradivari ‘King Carlos IV’ violin 1709 poster
The ‘King Carlos IV’ is one of the few instruments remaining from the collection of the Spanish king, who ruled from 1788 to 1808. Made during Stradivari’s ‘golden period’, it is one of the rare examples that is so well preserved that its sound is seldom matched by other violins of the era. The maple back has deep, wide flames descending slightly, which shimmer like water in the light. The scroll is incredibly round and bold, displaying an ultimate strength in making.
Florian Leonhard examines its history and present condition in The Strad magazine July 2023
Antonio Stradivari ‘King Carlos IV’ violin 1709 poster – FOLDED VERSION
FOLDED VERSION
The ‘King Carlos IV’ is one of the few instruments remaining from the collection of the Spanish king, who ruled from 1788 to 1808. Made during Stradivari’s ‘golden period’, it is one of the rare examples that is so well preserved that its sound is seldom matched by other violins of the era. The maple back has deep, wide flames descending slightly, which shimmer like water in the light. The scroll is incredibly round and bold, displaying an ultimate strength in making.
Florian Leonhard examines its history and present condition in The Strad magazine July 2023
BUNDLE – The Best of Trade Secrets 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5
Antonio Stradivari ‘Harrison’ violin 1693 poster
A perfect example of Stradivari's Long Pattern, the 'Harrison' was for many years the principal performing instrument of Kyung Wha Chung. It is now part of the collection of the National Music Museum in Vermillion, South Dakota, US.
Read more in The StradOur posters are shipped separately from other products. One tube can hold up to 10 posters. Save on postage costs by purchasing up to 10 posters per tube today.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Antonio Stradivari ‘Harrison’ violin 1693 poster – FOLDED VERSION
FOLDED VERSION
A perfect example of Stradivari's Long Pattern, the 'Harrison' was for many years the principal performing instrument of Kyung Wha Chung. It is now part of the collection of the National Music Museum in Vermillion, South Dakota, US.
Read more in The Strad
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here*** 
The Best of Trade Secrets 5
The Best of Trade Secrets 4
The Best of Trade Secrets 3
The Best of Trade Secrets 2
The Best of Trade Secrets
Girolamo Amati II violin 1671 poster
The son of Nicolò Amati, Girolamo Amati II was the last instrument maker of the illustrious Amati dynasty. Although he made fewer violins than his forebears, the ones that have survived show the work of a skilled luthier in his prime. This violin, made in the early part of his career, is a pristine example of his craftsmanship and shows many stylistic similarities to the work of his father. It is now housed in the Royal Academy of Music.
’The maple is delicately figured on the back and ribs, and plain for the neck-block. It has been perfectly quarter-cut. Unevenly scattered bearclaw figure ruffles the surface of the one-piece spruce front' – Barbara Meyer in the July 2022 issue
Read more in The Strad
Our posters are shipped separately from other products. One tube can hold up to 10 posters. Save on postage costs by purchasing up to 10 posters per tube today.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Girolamo Amati II violin 1671 poster – FOLDED VERSION
FOLDED VERSION
The son of Nicolò Amati, Girolamo Amati II was the last instrument maker of the illustrious Amati dynasty. Although he made fewer violins than his forebears, the ones that have survived show the work of a skilled luthier in his prime. This violin, made in the early part of his career, is a pristine example of his craftsmanship and shows many stylistic similarities to the work of his father. It is now housed in the Royal Academy of Music.
'The maple is delicately figured on the back and ribs, and plain for the neck-block. It has been perfectly quarter-cut. Unevenly scattered bearclaw figure ruffles the surface of the one-piece spruce front' – Barbara Meyer in the July 2022 issue
Read more in The Strad
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
G.B. Guadagnini ‘Cozio’ viola 1773 poster FOLDED VERSION
FOLDED VERSION
This viola is one of the first to be made by Giovanni Battista Guadagnini during his ‘Turin period’, which saw the crafting of some of his finest works. His regular income from Count Cozio di Salabue gave him greater freedom to experiment, as evidenced by this small-size viola with high-set f-holes and enlarged centre bouts. With a back length of 400mm, it has wide, full arching and a brilliant yellow-orange varnish. The poster includes high-definition CT scans as well as full measurements.
'The workmanship of the viola is of great quality and care: the archings are perfectly cut and finished, the interior appears to be in an excellent state of conservation, and it bears a number of the maker's marks' - Alberto Giordano in the January 2022 issue
‘Armingaud, Fernández Blanco’ Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ violin 1732 poster – FOLDED VERSION
An extraordinarily well-preserved violin from Guarneri's middle period, the 'Armingaud, Fernández Blanco' languished for decades untouched until its rediscovery in a Buenos Aires wardrobe. The quality of its varnish and workmanship are exceptional.
'The "Armingaud, Fernández Blanco" is so well preserved that we can learn a great deal about the maker from it' – Frédéric Chaudière in the November 2017 edition of The Strad.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Antonio Stradivari ‘Willemotte’ violin 1734 poster – FOLDED VERSION
FOLDED VERSION
A masterpiece of Antonio Stradivari's late period, the 'Willemotte' has a muscular ruggedness and strong character: massive, with generous edges, full arching and broad f-holes. It is now the principal performing instrument of violinist Leonidas Kavakos. Includes measurements, thickness maps and life-size CT scans.
'The sound of the "Willemotte" leaves one grasping for the right adjectives: complex, deep, pungent, something you almost taste as much as hear' - Sam Zygmuntowicz in the December 2020 edition of The Strad.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Antonio Stradivari ‘Benecke’ violin 1694 poster – FOLDED VERSION
FOLDED VERSION
A masterpiece from Stradivari's 'Long Pattern' era, the 1694 'Benecke' remains in an almost pristine state of preservation. It was named for its owner Paul Benecke, a friend of Mendelssohn, and was greatly admired by the Hills, who called it 'probably the finest of the Long Pattern that we know of'. As well as containing full measurements, this poster includes micro-CT scans, thickness and arching maps, and all the information luthiers need to make their own copy.
'In contrast with the earlier production of Stradivari, the refined aesthetic of the ‘Benecke’... communicates a sense of fluidity and softness... which was a primary source of inspiration for other Italian makers working at the beginning of the 20th century, particularly in Milan' - Andrea Zanrè in the July 2020 edition.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Carlo Bergonzi ‘Baron Knoop’ violin 1735 poster – FOLDED VERSION
FOLDED VERSION
This violin demonstrates all the hallmarks of Carlo Bergonzi's mature style, as well as the influences of both Antonio Stradivari and Guarneri ‘del Gesù’. Made from top-quality spruce and maple, it shows the exquisite care with which Bergonzi prepared all his finest instruments.
'Bergonzi's varnish has a deep, subdued fire which doesn’t try to emulate the visual effects obtained by his competitors' - Andrea Zanrè in the July 2021 edition of The Strad
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
G.B. Guadagnini ‘Cozio’ viola 1773 poster
This viola is one of the first to be made by Giovanni Battista Guadagnini during his ‘Turin period’, which saw the crafting of some of his finest works. His regular income from Count Cozio di Salabue gave him greater freedom to experiment, as evidenced by this small-size viola with high-set f-holes and enlarged centre bouts. With a back length of 400mm, it has wide, full arching and a brilliant yellow-orange varnish. The poster includes high-definition CT scans as well as full measurements.
'The workmanship of the viola is of great quality and care: the archings are perfectly cut and finished, the interior appears to be in an excellent state of conservation, and it bears a number of the maker's marks' - Alberto Giordano in the January 2022 issue
Our posters are shipped separately from other products. One tube can hold up to 10 posters. Save on postage costs by purchasing up to 10 posters per tube today.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here*** 
Antonio Stradivari ‘Archinto’ viola 1696 poster
By popular demand, The Strad is republishing one of its most sought-after posters - the 1696 'Archinto' Stradivari viola - with brand new photography that brings out the colours and craftsmanship like never before. One of the treasures of London's Royal Academy of Music, the 'Archinto' provides a model for luthiers to admire and copy even in the 21st century.
'The 1696 Stradivari ‘Archinto’ viola is one of the most beautiful instruments in the world. It was made at a very felicitous time, just as the great master’s red varnish was reaching perfection and his designs — encapsulated in the gorgeous long pattern violins — were at their most elegant... The tone is archetypal Stradivari; clear and pure across all the strings, with a quick response and good articulation. In the hands of a great player it provides a wide range of tone colour. In contrast to the typically Brescian sound, it is more violin-like in quality and reveals a slight lack of potency in the lowest string.' - John Dilworth in the June 1996 issue
Includes measurements, thickness and arching maps.
Our posters are shipped separately from other products. One tube can hold up to 10 posters. Save on postage costs by purchasing up to 10 posters per tube today.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Carlo Bergonzi ‘Baron Knoop’ violin 1735 poster
This violin demonstrates all the hallmarks of Carlo Bergonzi's mature style, as well as the influences of both Antonio Stradivari and Guarneri ‘del Gesù’. Made from top-quality spruce and maple, it shows the exquisite care with which Bergonzi prepared all his finest instruments.
'Bergonzi's varnish has a deep, subdued fire which doesn’t try to emulate the visual effects obtained by his competitors' - Andrea Zanrè in the July 2021 edition of The Strad
Includes measurements, thickness and arching maps and life-size micro-CT scans.
Our posters are shipped separately from other products. One tube can hold up to 10 posters. Save on postage costs by purchasing up to 10 posters per tube today.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Antonio Stradivari ‘Willemotte’ violin 1734
A masterpiece of Antonio Stradivari's late period, the 'Willemotte' has a muscular ruggedness and strong character: massive, with generous edges, full arching and broad f-holes. It is now the principal performing instrument of violinist Leonidas Kavakos.
'The sound of the "Willemotte" leaves one grasping for the right adjectives: complex, deep, pungent, something you almost taste as much as hear' - Sam Zygmuntowicz in the December 2020 edition of The Strad.
Poster includes measurements, thickness maps and life-size CT scans.
Our posters are shipped separately from other products. One tube can hold up to 10 posters. Save on postage costs by purchasing up to 10 posters per tube today.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Antonio Stradivari 1694 ‘Benecke’ violin
A masterpiece from Stradivari's 'Long Pattern' era, the 1694 'Benecke' remains in an almost pristine state of preservation. It was named for its owner Paul Benecke, a friend of Mendelssohn, and was greatly admired by the Hills, who called it 'probably the finest of the Long Pattern that we know of'. As well as containing full measurements, this poster includes micro-CT scans, thickness and arching maps, and all the information luthiers need to make their own copy.
'In contrast with the earlier production of Stradivari, the refined aesthetic of the ‘Benecke’... communicates a sense of fluidity and softness... which was a primary source of inspiration for other Italian makers working at the beginning of the 20th century, particularly in Milan' - Andrea Zanrè in the July 2020 edition.
Our posters are shipped separately from other products. One tube can hold up to 10 posters. Save on postage costs by purchasing up to 10 posters per tube today.
***Don't miss our NEW Folded Poster Tailored Bundle. Choose any two or more of The Strad’s folded posters and pay just £9.99 for each. Watch a video of the selection here***
Nicolò Amati ‘Romanov’ Viola 1677 Poster
The 1677 'Romanov' was made when Nicolò Amati was 81 years old and clearly shows the hand of the master, along with that of his son, Girolamo Amati II. It has been part of the collections of the Venetian nobility and Russian imperial dynasty, and was for many years the concert instrument of Max Aronoff, violinist with the Curtis Quartet.
'This is only the third poster of a Nicolò Amati instrument in The Strad’s history – perhaps surprising given the maker’s significance to the world of violin making. Nicolò’s violins have been overshadowed by the great works of Stradivari, Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ and Guadagnini which are generally better for large concert halls: as a consequence, contemporary makers seldom choose Nicolò Amati models for their violins (unless making a Baroque instrument specifically). When it comes to violas, however, there is a different trend: when I was a judge at the 2018 Cremona Triennale it was a nice surprise for me to see how many violas were based on Amati models.
'When using a Stradivari violin pattern it’s important to respect the original design. It is not advisable to make significant changes to the proportions to a mould that is apparently perfect: you cannot mess up with a Strad model. For viola making, a Nicolò Amati model can be modified much more successfully without losing its original spirit and balance: the relationship between the f-holes and the central body, for instance, can be more easily modified when resizing the instrument. For this reason, it makes sense to publish a poster of a resized large viola; and given that digital technologies are now available to everyone, makers will be able to adjust the model according to their own needs and personal solutions.
'The good side of viola making is that there is still a great deal to be learnt in terms of sound research, and that it gives makers a chance to develop their own style while respecting the classical roots of our tradition.'
– Alberto Giordano in The Strad's December 2019 edition
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In Focus 2
The Strad ’s second compilation of fascinating articles, written within the last 5 years, brings together fine instruments by some of the world’s greatest instrument experts. In this new anthology, every instrument has been given three pages to include more close-up photographs, archings, angles and tiny details.
Antonio Stradivari ‘Gustav Mahler’ viola 1672 poster
Currently played by Antoine Tamestit, the 'Mahler' is one of only ten surviving violas by Antonio Stradivari – and the earliest known viola he made. The instrument bears all the hallmarks of the Cremonese master, as well as some intriguing details that suggest the 28-year-old luthier was already experimenting with the form.
'The more one looks into the "Mahler", the more facets and curiosities reveal themselves. Like all great artworks it is a product of its time and circumstances, as well as a result of experiments to bring something totally new and unique into the world'
– Jonathan Marolle in the July 2019 issue
The poster includes full measurements, outlines of the back, scroll side, f-holes, and front and back archings and rib outline.
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Antonio Stradivari ‘Cecil’ violin 1724 poster
The 1724 'Cecil' is that rare thing: a genuine Stradivari violin that has gone virtually unreported for the past three centuries. It spent decades in the possession of an Italian family, which means it remains in an excellent state of preservation – the varnish is virtually unblemished and its sound quality is excellent. It was one of the instruments in the collection of Count Cozio di Salabue, and has also been examined and verified by Charles-Eugène Gand and Charles Beare. Despite coming from Stradivari's late period (he was 80 at the time), the hand of the master, rather than that of his sons, is identifiable all over the instrument. The poster includes full measurements, outlines of the back, scroll, f-holes, and front and back archings, as well as thickness maps and the rib heights.
'The varnish is the same deep, rich red–brown seen on great examples of the golden period like the 1721 ‘Lady Blunt’ and 1716 ‘Medici’. It is, apart from the repairs to the front, unadulterated by polish and other accretions that camouflage the texture of so many well-used and restored examples' – John Dilworth in the November 2018 issue of The Strad
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‘Vieuxtemps’ Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ 1741 poster
One of the most expensive violins in the world, the 1741 'Vieuxtemps' Guarneri 'del Gesù' was sold in 2012 for a sum in excess of $16 million. It has been given on lifetime loan to US violinist Anne Akiko Meyers. Among its illustrious former players was Henri Vieuxtemps; at his funeral it was carried behind the hearse on a velvet cushion, by fellow violinist Eugène Ysaÿe.
As well as full measurements, the back of this poster contains detailed CT scans, thickness maps and actual-size cross-sections of the archings. The violin still remains in a remarkable state of preservation, especially considering it has been in use for most of its life.
'The violin has a colossal range. I found I could play the entire repertoire, from Vivaldi to Sibelius to modern works, just on this one violin. It feels as though there’s colour in my fingertips' – Anne Akiko Meyers in the June 2018 edition of The Strad
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‘Armingaud, Fernández Blanco’ Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ violin 1732 poster
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Antonio Stradivari ‘Dancla’ violin 1708 poster
The 1708 'Dancla' Stradivari is an exceptional violin from the middle of the maker's so-called 'golden period'. It perfectly represents Antonio Stradivari's later experiments while also embodying some rare characteristics. This poster not only boasts full-length, actual-size photographs by Jan Röhrmann, but also CT scans, thickness and arching maps, and full measurements.
'The archings are consistent in height and curve in a violin of strong visual impact —a powerful, bold look for which Stradivari was striving from the turn of the century, especially from 1707' - Alberto Giordano in the July 2017 edition of The Strad
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Francesco Rugeri violin 1686
Was the 17th-century maker Francesco Rugeri trained by Nicolò Amati? This violin appears to show the clear influence of the great master, with arching close to Amati's late style and f-holes showing Rugeri's personal interpretation of an Amati model. Conversely, the head seems to anticipate the work of Carlo Bergonzi, some decades later. A fascinating violin by a highly regarded Cremonese maker. Includes measurements.
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Antonio Stradivari ‘Saveuse’ cello 1726 poster
The 1726 'Saveuse' is one of the smallest cellos ever to come out of Antonio Stradivari's workshop. From the beautifully carved scroll to the smouldering, rich maroon colour of the varnish, the instrument displays the finest characteristics of the luthier's late period. It remains in almost perfect condition and provides a fascinating insight into the mind of Stradivari the innovator. This poster will be an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn from the master.
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José Contreras violin 1767 poster
This splendid violin from the so-called ‘Classical Age’ of Spanish violin making might well have been commissioned for King Charles IV. José Contreras (c.1710–82) was one of the greatest luthiers of the era, sometimes referred to as ‘the Spanish Stradivari’. The influence of the Cremonese master can clearly be seen in this fine instrument.
‘The general form of the arching is rounded and slightly bulbous, especially in the middle of the upper and lower bouts. The f-holes are very Stradivarian in form, and generally widely cut and broadly spaced on the front. The lower wings are lightly fluted and the nicks are typically small’ – John Dilworth in the December 2013 issue of The Strad
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Antonio Stradivari ‘Huberman’ violin 1713 poster
This stunning instrument from Stradivari’s golden period has sleek, taut arching, lithe and slender corners, and a bubbled texture to the plum-red varnish. It was played by Bronislaw Huberman until 1936 until it was notoriously stolen from his dressing room at Carnegie Hall. Fifty years later it was recovered, and is now the property of US soloist Joshua Bell. Includes scans and measurements.
'The scroll is made of typical fine-grained maple, with only minimal figure, allowing for very fluid carving. The profile is sleek, with a graceful oval head, slender pegbox, and narrow throat, echoed in the tight cutting into the eye' – Sam Zygmuntowicz in the November 2013 issue of The Strad
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Antonio Stradivari ‘Benvenuti’ Violin 1727 poster
One of the masterpieces of Stradivari’s late period, the ‘Benvenuti’ has had a rich playing history – which makes it all the more remarkable that the instrument remains in superb condition today. This is the first of The Strad's posters to use full-colour micro-CT scans, with all the scanned images actual-size reproductions of the instrument.
'From both the front and rear, the pegbox appears wide and powerful, the fluting remaining quite shallow all over (as in the volute), to deepen only under the throat' – Andrea Zanrè in the December 2016 issue
Full-colour micro-CT scans, with all the scanned images actual-size reproductions of the instrument.
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Antonio Stradivari ‘Messiah’ violin 1716 poster
Stradivari’s 1716 ‘Messiah’ violin is one of the most coveted in the world. The pristine condition of the instrument, made during his ‘golden period’ and barely played since then, offers unique insights into the mind of the great master. This poster will be an excellent resource for anyone trying to replicate such a violin. Includes measurements.
'The ‘Messiah’ was as exceptional to Stradivari as it is to us. And this ‘apartness’ was as obvious to his sons, and even the Bergonzis who lived on in the Casa Stradivari, making and selling new instruments as well as salvaging and finishing partly completed work for a good 20 years after Antonio’s death.’ – John Dilworth in the March 2011 issue of The Strad
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Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ ‘Cessole’ violin 1736 poster
Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ made the ‘Cessole’ violin during his period of full maturity. It bears a label dated 1736, and the character of the instrument fits perfectly with his style in that year. The back is spectacular, with a broad and deep flame extending upwards from the central joint. Includes measurements
'The main character of the violin is an appearance of delicacy, a trait that is generally unexpected for "del Gesù", but which is often found in his instruments before his later period. The body of the violin is a little small, a few millimetres shorter than a standard Stradivari' – Carlo Chiesa in the July 2010 issue of The Strad
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Jacob Stainer tenor viola c. 1650 poster
The only remaining tenor viola made by the Tyrolean maker Jacob Stainer reveals the maker's painstaking attention to detail and offers tantalising clues about Italian influence on his style. It is in superb condition: the scroll is a replacement but the rest of the instrument – including, remarkably, the neck and fingerboard – are believed to be original. The label, which is a facsimile, states that it was made in 1650. Includes measurements.
'The viola's most striking feature is its size. The body stretches more than 18 arm-aching inches. The neck is relatively short, however. In the 18th century, many tenor violas were cut down to more manageable sizes, though a few were left large. Three of the best examples are the 1690 Antonio Stradivari 'Medici', the 1574 Andrea Amati, and this Jacob Stainer' – Darren Freeman in the March 2010 issue of The Strad
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Antonio Stradivari ‘Titian’ violin 1715 poster
The 'Titian' Stradivari of 1715 has long been counted among the finest violins of the maker's golden period. It has revealed itself to be a formidable concert instrument of unusual power and scope, remarkable for its focus and resilience under the bow. The violin was dubbed 'Titian' by the French dealer Albert Caressa because of its clear orange–red colour, which reminded him of the work of the famous Venetian painter. Includes photographs, scans and measurements.
‘On first look, the violin seems strong and solid, with its smoothly worn patina, sturdy arching and edgework, and immaculate finishing with virtually no visible trace of the hand – all is pure architecture, with the execution almost completely subsumed. The patina shows careful use, with the edges rounded and the varnish smoothed to a luminous film.’ – Sam Zygmuntowicz in the February 2009 issue of The Strad
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Nicolas Lupot violin 1808 poster
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Brothers Amati cello c.1600 poster
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Henry Jaye viol 1618 poster
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Carlo Bergonzi violin 1736 Poster
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Gasparo da Salò double bass c.1550 poster
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Domenico Montagnana violin 1717 poster
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‘Kruse’ Stradivari violin 1721 poster
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Andrea Amati violin c.1566 poster
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Pietro Guarneri of Mantua violin 1704 poster
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Carlo Giuseppe Testore violin c.1703 poster
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‘Schneider’ Gofriller cello 1693 poster
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G.P. Maggini violin c.1630 poster
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‘Alard’ Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ violin 1742 poster
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‘Milanollo’ Stradivari violin 1728 poster
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G.B. Rogeri violin 1704 poster
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Nicolò Amati violin 1666 poster
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Pietro Guarneri of Venice violin 1735 poster
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‘Kochanski’ Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ violin 1741 poster
One of The Strad's most popular posters is now available with brand new artwork showing the 1741 'Kochanski' Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ in all its glory.
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‘Muir-Mackenzie’ Stradivari violin 1694 poster
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Lachmann Schwechter Guadagnini violin 1776 poster
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Jacob Stainer violin 1679 poster
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Alessandro Gagliano ‘Rotondo’ violin 1710 poster
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Giuseppe Guarneri ‘filius Andrea’ violin 1705 poster
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‘Kreisler’ Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ violin 1733 poster
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In Focus
For a limited time only, The Strad is issuing the first in the In Focus series with a beautiful, new limited edition cover.
This collection of articles from The Strad’s long-running In Focus series brings together more than 80 fascinating stringed instruments, with commentaries by some of today’s top instrument experts.
Makers include Antonio Stradivari, Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ and G.B. Guadagnini, but also lesser-known masters such as Paul Knorr, Dante Baldoni, Charles Nicolas Altermatt and many others. This makes it an essential resource for anyone seeking to extend their lutherie knowledge into areas and makers whose work is more rare, and a significant addition to the lutherie literature.
In Focus features exceptional high-quality photographs for every featured instrument – front, back and scroll – this book will provide inspiration for today’s makers and anyone who enjoys the beauty and variety of stringed instruments.
G.B. Guadagnini 1774 Salabue Berta Violin poster – Flawed
This poster has damage in the form of a small rip and a crumple, both on the sides, not affecting the images or measurements.
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Guarneri Del Gusu Heifetz, 1742
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Gibson viola, 1734
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Tuscan’ Medici’ Stradivari viola, 1690
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Maggini Contralto viola poster
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Domenico Montagnana cello 1740
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Andrea Amati ‘King’ cello poster
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G.B. Guadagnini 1774 Salabue Berta Violin poster
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Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ ‘Brusilow’ violin 1743 poster
A superb violin from the last years of the maker's life, the 'Brusilow' is in an incredible state of preservation. Played for many years by Anshel Brusilow during his years as concertmaster of the Philadelphia Orchestra, the instrument displays many of the idiosyncratic qualities that characterise the late period of 'del Gesù'. Includes scans and measurements.
'It has a kind of powerful three-dimensionailty that hits the eyes and makes the viewer want to touch it lightly in order to scan its unpredictable surface' – Alberto Giordano in the December 2015 issue of The Strad
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Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume cello 1865 poster
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Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ ‘Plowden’ violin 1735 poster
One of the finest and most acclaimed ‘del Gesù’ instruments in existence, the ‘Plowden’ is striking in its vivid freshness and particularly notable for the intense orange–red varnish on its stunning one-piece back. Includes scans and measurements.
'The ‘Plowden’ gives an outsize impression that defies its rather petite dimensions. Several factors combine to create this effect: the very broad-flamed maple back, the substantial thickness of the purfling, the wide-grained top, back arching that quickly rises from the relatively shallow channel, the open f-holes and, above all, the plentiful red varnish that lies with an almost sculptural effect over the undulating flames of the back.’ – Sam Zygmuntowicz in the July 2011 issue of The Strad
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Pietro Giacomo Rogeri cello 1717 poster
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‘Viotti’ Antonio Stradivari violin 1709 poster
One of the top Stradivari violins in the world, the 1709 'Viotti' helped to establish the master's name – thanks to its illustrious owner. The powerful tone and brilliance of sound created by this exceptional combination of instrument and performer (G.B. Viotti) helped to create the Stradivari legend. Includes measurements
‘The whole instrument seems to have been designed to be light, to exploit the minimum mass of wood in the plates and ribs which could support a low but characteristically stiff arching. The arching is full and seems undistorted and extremely regular. The front is delicately worked with a reverse gradation of 2.5–3mm around the perimeter reducing to 2mm in the centre. Yet still the arching is firm, with no sign of collapse around the fs or excessive pressure from the soundpost.’ – John Dilworth in the March 2006 issue
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An A-Z of Instrument Care by Jane Dorner (2nd Edition)
Matteo Gofriller violin 1700 poster
A classic example of the great Venetian's work: his own pattern with glorious varnish and individual wood selection. Includes measurements
'The violin's hollowed edge is characteristic and the purfling is swept across the corner in Stradivari fashion. The f-holes are typical of the Cremona-influenced Tyrolean makers – based on the Brothers Amati but wider and upright in stance. Over the wood Gofriller laid the most supple varnish, which often seems to have no substance at all but is steeped into the wood, turning it a deep burgundy colour. Beneath the dark patina there is a slight rose-madder tint to the red.' – John Dilworth in the December 2000 issue of The Strad
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G.B. Guadagnini viola 1785 poster
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‘Conte Vitale’ Andrea Guarneri viola c.1676 poster
An important instrument from the first maker to concentrate on the smaller-pattern viola. Includes measurements.
‘Guarneri’s scrolls are always charming and totally distinctive. Careless in cutting the central eye perfectly round, he left a little tail into the first turn of the volute that is a Guarneri trademark, giving the bonus of having two different scrolls to enjoy either side of the one head. The fluting carries right round the front of the head and is very cleanly finished at the throat, ample testimony to Guarneri’s skill. What finally elevates this viola to highest rank is its almost entire coat of fine yellow varnish.’ – John Dilworth in the October 1996 issue.
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‘Sleeping Beauty’ Montagnana cello 1739 poster
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Brothers Amati tenor viola 1592 poster
A fine example of the rarely played tenor viola, which set the standard for all the great Cremonese makers. Includes measurements
‘Generally the workmanship, though clean and delicate, lacks something of the usual pristine quality which one would normally associate with a Brothers instrument. Fortunately true art is seldom precise and the majestic beauty of this head is not marred by any shortfall in mathematical symmetry.' – Roger Hargrave in the March 1993 issue
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‘Alard’ Amati violin 1649 poster
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Varnishes and Very Curious Secrets: Cremona 1747, ed. Vincenzo Gheroldi
This study is based on a collection of varnish recipes in an 18th-century manuscript in a Milan library. Based on this manuscript, Gheroldi, Stefania Vitale and Luciano Colombo provide the cultural background to the amateurs who wrote artistic recipe books and their preferences and technical skills in preparing varnishes for paintings, as well as 'Chinese varnishes' and varnishes for miniature paintings. Two further essays deal with 18th-century varnishes for violin making and restoration.
This is a fascinating document for understanding the techniques of the 'Golden Age' of Cremonese instruments, and to further experimentation for contemporary violin makers.
Paperback in hard box. 251pp; text in English and Italian.
Andrea Amati violin 1564 poster
The beauty of the workmanship, tonal properties and rich decoration of this royal instrument has seldom if ever been matched or surpassed. Includes measurements.
'For his scrolls, Andrea seems to have gone directly back to Nature itself. The concept was mathematically and optically so perfect that what followed over the centuries could only be a steady degeneration' – Roger Hargrave in the December 1991 issue of The Strad.
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‘Servais’ Stradivari cello 1701 poster
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Lord Wilton’ Guarneri ‘del Gesù’ violin 1742 poster
Once the concert instrument of Yehudi Menuhin, this magnificent violin makes an interesting contrast with the ‘Alard’ of the same year
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The Strad Varnish Colour Swatch
The Strad Colour Swatch has been designed to help you match varnish colours between instruments. Ideal for specifying colours with partners and suppliers in other locations.
The collection of 70 graded and uniquely coded colour tabs comes with a protective plastic cover and should be an essential tool in your workshop.
