Made in Paris in 1808, this violin comes from the finest period of François Louis Pique's career. The model follows Stradivari closely and shows disciplined, careful workmanship that defines the great Parisian school of the early nineteenth century. The varnish is a warm golden red over a lustrous ground, worn in the way one hopes to find on an instrument of this age and quality.
The sound is bright, clear and quick to speak, with a silvery focus on the E string and real depth underneath. It projects easily without being forced, rewarding a player who wants precision and carrying power.
Certificateby Hill & Sons. Documentation available to qualified buyers.
François Louis Pique (1758–1822) was one of the leading figures of the French classical school and, with Nicolas Lupot, largely responsible for establishing Paris as the centre of European violin making in the early nineteenth century. He settled in Paris around 1777 and built his reputation on a rigorous interpretation of the Stradivari model. His instruments remain sought after by soloists for their clarity, responsiveness and refinement, and are among the most collectable French violins of any period.
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