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When it comes to the aesthetics of a contemporary instrument, makers usually split into two categories: new-looking instruments that show their true age and the antique look so often preferred by players in reverence to the old masters.
Antiquing is not a new idea for instrument makers. In fact, many luthiers have been antiquing their instruments for centuries.
The French violin maker, Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume is often mentioned as one of the most famous examples of this practice, which likely started in France in the 1700-1800s.
Antiquing can be done in a variety of ways and it is considered something of an art form in its own right!
Hans Johannsson is a master luthier with an established reputation worldwide. He recently celebrated his 40-plus-year career with a two-week festival in Reykjavik, featuring string ensembles and orchestras showcasing his body of work, which includes over 300 instruments spread throughout the world. This exceptional cello from 2022 exemplifies his finest output. The tone is powerful and noble, full of overtones, with an immediate and satisfying response. It is ideally suited for a discerning player seeking a soloist-level instrument from one of the finest makers of his generation.
Hans Johannsson is a skilled craftsman who creates violins, violas, cellos, double basses, and various other stringed instruments. His love for the violin began in his grandfather Gudjon Halldorsson's cabinet-making workshop in Reykjavík, Iceland. After completing his studies with distinction at the Newark School of Violin Making in Great Britain under Maurice Bouette and Glen Collins in 1980, and later receiving a master's diploma from the Icelandic Arts and Crafts Council in 1982, Hans has been crafting instruments for professional musicians worldwide.
Hans develops his instruments based on his own unique model, continually evolving the design of outlines and proportions. He rarely creates copies, believing that the renowned masters of the past all established their own distinct styles within a classical theme. To Hans, imitation is only useful for educational purposes, as he prefers to contribute his own creative touch to his instruments.
Scotland-based Douglas MacArthur consistently crafts some of the most beautiful instruments we come across. This Ruggeri-model cello is a great example of his expert antiquing and aesthetic balance, and it sounds as good as it looks! The tone is rich & warm, and the instrument feels alive across the range. Douglas is quickly gaining popularity amongst players and collectors in the UK, and this cello is an opportunity to own a very fine example of his work!
I am continually working with musicians to develop the tone and playability of my instruments, travelling, sometimes hundreds of miles, to study the master works of Stradivari, Guarneri etc, as well as those of my contemporaries, and putting the time aside to study in depth all aspects of my craft.
Pedro Silva is a cellist and one of the co-founders of Myluthier.co. He graduated from the Royal Academy of Music in 2018 with a Master of Arts in cello performance, studying with Guy Johnston. He enjoys an varied freelance career as an orchestral, chamber musician and frequently collaborates with Early Music ensembles and West End productions.
Rare antique instruments, representing both historical significance and unparalleled craftsmanship.
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Explore the elusive art of antiquing violins, a skillful blend of old-world charm & modern craftsmanship, showcased in contemporary masterpieces.
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