Violin by François Hippolyte Caussin, Neufchâteau, circa 1870
About François Hippolyte Caussin
François Hippolyte Caussin was born in 1830 in Rouvres-la-Chétive, a commune 30 kilometres west of Mirecourt. His father and first teacher was the luthier François Caussin, often known as Caussin père. His elder brother Nicolas was also a fine luthier.
Caussin junior served his apprenticeship with Gaillard in Mirecourt before returning to his father’s Neufchâteau workshop, where the output focussed on copies of fine Italian instruments. He eventually took over the running of the workshop and died in 1898.
About the violin
This violin was made in Neufchâteau circa 1870 and is a copy of the 1716 'Messiah' Stradivari.
The violin has a two piece back of quarter-sawn maple with ribs and scroll to match. The front is two pieces of fine-grained spruce which widens towards the flanks and the varnish is golden brown in colour.
The violin has a length of back of 356 mm.
How does it sound?
This is an extremely big, rich and projecting violin. It is entirely suited to a player wanting to tackle the most difficult and demanding repertoire, and would work well both in and in front of an orchestra, as well as in smaller groups and being played solo. This violin feels somewhat like a secret weapon!
Condition
The condition of this violin is extremely good. There is one small crack on the front, and a edge crack outside of the purfling on the back. The varnish was heavily antiqued by the maker and is characteristic of his work, and there is some retouch on the back.
Certification
The violin comes with the 2024 certificate of Serge and Florent Boyer.
Further information
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