Fine Viola by Douglas MacArthur, 2020 ‘la Stauffer’ Amati

‘la Stauffer’ Brothers Amati 1615

Login/ Register to See Prices

£ 20,000 GBP
Make an offer
Sold
Join the waiting list!
Be the first to know when a new instrument by this maker becomes available
Ordering Through MyLuthier
Thank you! We will be in touch as soon as the next instrument is ready!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Description
Notes from the maker Douglas MacArthur: This particular model of viola has been something I’ve been working on, on and off, for 8 years. It is ‘la Stauffer’ Brothers Amati of 1615, the earliest known contralto viola in existence. It’s housed in the museum in Cremona and is in a wonderful state of preservation. It took me 4 years to source all the information I needed and to draw the plans for it before I could make the first one, as the information available is sparse and a number of sources have to be consulted to piece it all together. There is no outline for it available commercially and so I had to learn how to draw Cremonese moulds from scratch, using the system of Euclidian geometry that was in use at the time, in order to be able to recreate it. Every part of the instrument is thought out carefully in regards to the processes involved, which in turn lead to the results achieved. The wood has been chosen carefully for it’s aesthetic and tonal qualities, the varnish and varnishing procedures are my own and are informed by the latest research on classical finishes and many years experimenting with the materials involved. Even the facsimile label inside has been printed on genuine seventeenth century paper, using reproductions of the typeset letters that would have been used on the original label; these have been individually handset on a traditional printing press and printed with historical inks. The reason I have gone to so much trouble to make this particular model is because, in my opinion, it is the most beautifully proportioned and stylistically elegant classical viola there is, and I have never been disappointed in the results. It sounds a good as it looks! The viola comes certified from the Luthier, Douglas MacArthur.
This instrument is eligible for 100% trade in value through our Trade In Guarantee. Full terms
Details
Every instrument is available to try at our beautiful central London showroom. Players are encouraged to take advantage of our free 7 day trial option.
Guidance for International Buyers
We offer free international shipping and insurance. VAT and duties may apply depending on the country so please contact us before placing your order.
You may also visit our Shipping & Returns Policy
Guidance for International Buyers
Every instrument is certified by MyLuthier & the maker and comes with a lifetime authenticity guarantee.
Guidance for International Buyers
We accept a variety of payment methods and currencies. If you have any questions please contact us before placing your order.
Guidance for International Buyers
Talk to an expert
Interested in this instrument?
Call Us +44 330 133 4225Email us
Get in Touch
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Douglas MacArthur
Douglas MacArthur
antiqued

Douglas MacArthur

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.

Douglas makes some of the most beautiful instruments I have ever seen. He's quickly gaining a very good reputation amongst London players.
- Ariel Lang, founder of MyLuthier
Full Bio
Douglas MacArthur
Related Instruments
Explore Fine Antique Instruments
Heritage by MyLuthier

Rare antique instruments, representing both historical significance and unparalleled craftsmanship.

View Instruments
myluthier heritage fine antique instruments

Schedule a Virtual Appointment

Explore Our Exceptional String Instruments Virtually
Book a virtual appointment with us and let's navigate through our exclusive selection together. From anywhere in the world, find the instrument that meets your musical aspirations.
Your perfect instrument is just a virtual visit away!

Book a Virtual Appointment
myluthier team
London Showroom

Try it at our London Showroom

Every instrument is available for trial at our beautiful central London showroom.
Based near the vibrant Smithfield market area of the City of London, you'll find a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for trying our contemporary collection.

49 Little Britain
EC1A 7BH, London

Contact us

MyLuthier is the UK's leading Dealer of high-quality contemporary violins, violas, cellos and bows.

Dealers in Contemporary Stringed Instruments

Meet Pedro & Ariel

Started by Violinist Ariel Lang and Cellist Pedro Silva while studying at the Royal Academy of Music in London.
Our mission is to provide musicians with exceptional musical instruments and bows at a fair price.

about us
myluthier team