Caussin school viola, Mirecourt, circa 1880
About Caussin school instruments
The term 'Caussin school' refers to instruments inspired by the work of the Neufchâteau maker François Caussin. A common feature of this school of instruments is the darkened area under the bridge, intended to imitate the marks left by rosin build up on older violins.
The majority of these instruments were made in Mirecourt, although some Saxon instruments are antiqued in a similar way.
About the viola
This viola was made in Mirecourt around 1880 and is modelled after the instruments of Stradivari, seen through the lens of François Caussin.
The viola has a two piece back of book-matched maple, the flame descending from the centre joint. The ribs and scroll are of similar wood. The front is two pieces of fairly wide-grained spruce and the varnish is golden-brown in colour. The viola bears the antiquing and shaded varnish characteristic of the Caussin school.
The viola has a length of back of 15 and 7/8ths or 404 mm.
How does it sound?
This viola is reliable and generous in character. It has a good ratio of warmth to projection and is even across the range.
Condition
The viola is in very good condition.
Further information
Please get in touch for more details about this antique French viola for sale and a member of our team will get back to you.