Violin by Lockey Hill, London, circa 1785

About Lockey Hill

Lockey Hill is certainly one of the most fascinating members of the great Hill dynasty, if not the world of violin making as a whole! Much research has been done in recent years to untangle the exact lineage of the family that gave rise to the great W.E. Hill and Sons.

Thanks to the research of John Basford and others, it seems that Lockey Hill, born in 1752, was not the son of Joseph Hill as previously thought, but in fact his nephew. Either way, the unfortunate fact that Lockey Hill combined his career as a luthier with that of a horse thief remains! The violin maker was hanged in 1796, a sad ending for one of the most prolific makers of his time.

Lockey Hill produced instruments mainly for the trade, with many being made for Longman and Co., later Longman and Broderip. It's probably fair to say that some of his work could be called perfunctory, in the manner of many of his London colleagues. We're excited to say that this particular example is much more fine than most!

About the violin

This violin was made in London around 1785 and is modelled after the instruments of Jacob Stainer.

The violin has a one piece back of narrow-flamed, quarter-sawn maple with ribs to match. The scroll is of slightly plainer maple and the front is two pieces of spruce. The varnish is a soft amber in colour.

The violin has a length of back of 354 mm.

How does it sound?

This violin has a clear, brilliant tone and is endlessly classy to play! Although very refined, it is lively and interesting.

Condition

The violin is in very good restored condition and has just undergone a restoration in order to prepare it for sale.

More information

For more options, please view other violins in this price range.