Violin by Joseph Wade, Leeds, 1887
This violin has now sold.
About Joseph Wade
Joseph Wade was amongst the small group of luthiers based in Leeds towards the end of the 19th Century and is notable for his decision to base many of his violins on an interpretation of a Stainer model. This model was rarely used in England throughout the 19th Century: the choice paid off as this violin sounds absolutely fantastic!
The Stainer model had gone out of fashion in England thanks to the glamourous Stradivari modelled instruments produced in London at the turn of the century by makers such as Betts, Fendt and Panormo. Prior to this, the Stainer model was by far the most popular choice for violins made in England.
About the violin
The length of back is a generous 360mm and the violin is labelled as No. 58 in Wade´s output, completed in 1887. It is obvious from the workmanship that Wade was a well-established, highly skilled luthier with a good deal of experience.
The violin has a two piece back of book-matched maple and the front is two pieces of very fine-grained spruce. The varnish is typical of English violins of the period, being a brown-red colour laid over a lighter ground. The subtly Stainer-inspired f holes are particularly fine.
How does it sound?
The violin is very even and has a relatively dark tone that is full and rich. It is quick to respond and to change character. This is a violin that is happy to take a great deal of contact with the bow, continuing to offer more as it is pushed.
Condition
The violin is in excellent condition and is original in all its parts.