Violin by John Moffatt, London, circa 1850

About John Moffatt

John William Moffatt was born in Southwark, London, and baptised there in 1805. His father was a chandler and Moffatt grew up to be a maker of strings. By the time of his second marriage in 1849 he gives his profession as a musical instrument manufacturer.

Moffatt is associated with the London maker and dealer Thomas Kennedy, whose influence can be seen in this violin. Moffatt died in 1854: his son, also named John William, was a seller of sheet music.

About the violin

This violin was made in London around 1850. Given that the violin bears his brand, the instrument is likely one that Moffatt made to sell himself, rather one which he made for Thomas Kennedy. The violin is modelled after the instruments of Stradivari, showing the influence of Kennedy most particularly in the scroll and varnish.

The violin has a one piece back of quarter-sawn maple with ribs to match. The scroll is of plainer maple and the front is one piece of straight-grained spruce which narrows from bass side to treble. The varnish is a rich reddish-brown in colour and has developed attractive craquelure in the manner of Kennedy.

The violin has a length of back of 354 mm.

How does it sound?

This violin is soft and sumptuous, with a beautifully silky voice. The E string is especially silvery: an amazing instrument for the Lark Ascending!

Condition

The violin is in very good condition.

Certification

The violin comes with a letter of opinion from John Dilworth.

More information

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