The 1649 ‘Alard’ is one of the finest instruments made by Nicolò (Nicola) Amati, the originator of the ‘Grand Amati’ pattern and the teacher of Rugeri, Andrea Guarneri, Stainer and possibly even Stradivari himself. The carving of the scroll is particularly fine. Includes measurements
‘I am convinced that Nicola Amati selected and prepared the materials for the “Alard” in order to achieve the maximum in both aesthetic beauty and functional effectiveness. When I look at this violin I have the overwhelming feeling that, right from the start, Nicola conceived it as something special.’ – Roger Hargrave, The Strad, March 1992
