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Viola by Alexander Darney, Kinghorn, 1890
About Alexander Darney
Alexander Darney is one of the very many Scottish makers who straddle the gap between professional and amateur making. He was born in Kinghorn, Fife, on the 12th of December 1822, and lived in that town all of his life. His father founded a business as a glue manufacturer in Kinghorn in 1818, passing away in 1855. From this time, Alexander managed the business with his elder brother Henry. Both brothers served on the Kinghorn Town Council, with Henry becoming the town's Provost in 1897.
The glue works were a relatively large employer in the town and the details above paint the picture of a Victorian industrialist with the time and funds to dedicate to his interest in making. Darney died on the 4th of May 1906 and is buried in Kinghorn Cemetery.
About the viola
This viola was made in Kinghorn in 1890 and is built on a personal model which shows the influence of the cut down Brothers Amati violas.
The viola has a two piece back of book matched, quarter-sawn maple, the flame descending from the centre joint. The ribs and scroll are of slightly plainer maple. The front is of two pieces of pine, the grain varying widely in width. There are wings in the edges of the lower bouts.
The viola has a length of back of 15 and three quarter inches, or 400 mm.
How does it sound?
This viola is a really compelling-sounding instrument. It has a brilliant combination of warmth and projection right across its range. The sound is easily accessible without having to dig, and the viola has lots of nuance and interest.
Condition
The viola is in very good condition.
Further information
Please get in touch for more details about this antique Scottish viola by Alexander Darney for sale and a member of our team will get back to you.