Violin by Ernest Kohler & Son, Edinburgh, circa 1920
This violin has now sold.
About Ernest Kohler
The Kohler family were an important part of the Edinburgh music scene for more than 130 years. Ernest Kohler himself appears to have arrived in Edinburgh around 1823, setting up his own workshop in the city. The Kohler firm grew successfully over the next two decades and was then inherited by his son Philip.
The firm grew to become an Edinburgh institution which made, imported and sold musical instruments as well as continuing to publish a great deal of music. Ernest Kohler & Son traded up until 1952.
About the violin
This violin was made in Markneukirchen by Kurt Gutter and imported by the Kohler firm to be sold in Edinburgh in the 1920s. The label names Gutter as the violin´s maker, however the back bears the Kohler and Sons brand.
The violin is modelled on a large Guarneri `del Gesu´ pattern with a length of back of 361mm. It has a one piece back of highly-figured maple and a two piece front of good-quality spruce. The varnish is a rich reddish brown colour which was likely chosen specially by the Kohler workshop for the tastes of the Scottish market.
How does it sound?
This violin has a thick, boomy, and resonant sound. It is rich, powerful and punchy without lacking in immediacy of response.
Condition
The violin is in great condition and has particularly attractive varnish.