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Violin by Francesco Emiliani, Rome, 1736
This violin has now sold.
About Francesco Emiliani
Francesco Emiliani was born around 1680 and is considered to be one of the leading Roman luthiers of the 18th century, second only to David Tecchler. As was the fashion in Rome at the time, Emiliani was influenced by the instruments of Jacob Stainer. Stylishly proportioned, Emiliani very much made Stainer models to an Italian recipe. I often think of Jacob Stainer´s violins as being a well-fed, rotund version of Amati, which in turn would make Emiliani's violins perhaps a more muscular version of Stainer.
About the violin
This violin was made in 1736 and retains its original label. The two piece back is of a highly flamed maple, the flame descending to the centre joint. The two piece front is of narrow grained spruce which widens slightly towards the edges. The varnish is amber in colour, laid over a golden ground. Altogether a very beautiful instrument!
This violin is original in all its parts and is an excellent example of the maker´s work. The violin has a length of back of 354mm.
How does it sound?
Tonally, this instrument combines the delicacy of a lovely Stainer with the meat and punch of an 18th century Italian violin. This violin is a deceptive one in terms of projection: whilst not quiet, this isn't a violin which shouts in your ear as you play. If, however, you hear someone playing this in the next-door room, it manages to sound present and close by despite the physical barrier. This would be a great violin for leading an orchestra or indeed for appearing in front of one. It would also make an chamber music instrument: when I play this violin, I can't help but gravitate towards the first violin parts of Beethoven string quartets - I've never enjoyed Opus 59, Number 2 as much as I do on this violin!
Condition
The condition is very good for an 18th century violin, with a small amount of repaired and historic worm damage as well as some other restorations. All restorations have been carried out to a very high standard.
Certification
A comprehensive and independent condition report will accompany the violin, along with a Beare certificate.