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Violin by Luigi Fabris, Venice, circa 1860
About Luigi Fabris
Luigi Fabris is an extremely interesting Venetian maker whose work connects the great classical makers of the city with later makers such as the Degani and Siega families. He likely trained with either Antonio Indri or Pietro Valentino Novello, the only active luthiers working in Venice in the early 1800s.
It is assumed that Fabris began working on his own around 1830, having been born in 1809. Personal and political challenges meant that life was not easy for Fabris: there is a gap in his production of around a decade before he began making in earnest again around 1860. He then continued to make up until his death in 1889.
Fabris can a challenging maker to attribute: historically, some of his instruments were ascribed to earlier Venetian makers due to the stylistic similarities between them, and then later an apocryphal Fabris label appears in a number of commercially-produced German violins. His own work is incredibly beautiful, distinctive and somewhat rare!
About the violin
This violin was made in Venice around 1860 and is modelled after the instruments of Guarneri 'del Gesù '.
The violin has a two piece back of beautifully-figured maple with a fascinating knot in the lower bout. The ribs and scroll are of similar wood and the front is two pieces of book-matched spruce of medium grain, widening towards the flanks. The varnish is his characteristic rich transparent red, laid over a lighter golden ground.
The violin has a length of back of 357 mm.
How does it sound?
This is an exceptional violin with a seriously interesting voice! It's rich and dark, with a great balance of power and pliability. A great instrument.
Condition
This violin is presented for sale with an historic soundpost crack to the back and a knot in the wood that Fabris chose to use. The violin has been comprehensively restored and is guaranteed by us: the violin is a superb instrument and offers a great opportunity to get a lot of sound for a lower budget!
Certification
The violin comes with the certificate of Eric Blot.
Further information
Please get in touch for more details about this fine Italian violin by Luigi Fabris for sale and a member of our team will get back to you.