Violin by Tomaso Eberle, Naples, 1782
This violin has now sold.
About Tomaso Eberle
Funnily enough, the Neopolitan maker Tomaso Eberle wasn't actually born in Naples. As is so often the case in this industry, a maker's nationality is decided by where they worked as opposed to their place of birth. Eberle must have moved from his native Vils in Austria very early in his life, likely before he started making violins, as there is no trace of the Austrian school in his work. Instead, his instruments are considered to be the epitome of violin making in Naples in the 18th century.
Having most likely learnt his craft from Nicola Gagliano, Eberle's style is pleasingly his own. His instruments generally display the Neopolitan characteristics of thin golden brown varnish, an elongated pegbox and pegs set in pairs, however his f holes are very much unique to him. His f holes are sometimes described as little stiff; however, I see them as neat and concise, with slim stems and small holes top and bottom. Eberle's scrolls are also neat, and considered more beautiful than those of his teacher. The scroll on this violin is particularly fine.
About the violin
The violin was made in 1782 and bears its original label. Interestingly, along with the label, Eberle also attached a religious dedication to the top block which reads `Gesù e Maria´: these were occasionally used by the master makers of 18th century Naples. The violin has a two piece back of strongly grained, lightly flamed maple. The two piece front is of medium grain spruce, widening towards the flanks. As is typical of Naples, the violin has slightly dry, golden varnish laid over a very faintly greenish ground. The violin has a length of back of 354mm.
How does it sound?
This violin is one of the best projecting instruments that we´ve ever had in the shop: whilst it retains the depth of tone and flexibility required to blend into a section, this violin loves to sing above an orchestra! It is truly intoxicating to have this amount of power and tonal possibility in your hands.
Condition
Original in all its parts, as regards condition, the certificate notes that the violin is `in an exceptionally fine state of preservation´.
Certification
The violin comes with an Andreas Woywod certificate of 2017.