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Violin by Raffaele Calace, Naples 1930
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Full description
This stunning violin by Raffaele Calace, made in Naples in 1930, is a rare gem in both craftsmanship and preservation. Owned by a single musician family for nearly a century, it remains in outstanding condition, with its original red-brown varnish beautifully intact. The one-piece maple back, featuring deep and mesmerizing flames, is a striking highlight, showcasing the maker’s attention to both material selection and visual elegance.
True to Calace’s characteristic style of the 1920s and 30s, this violin presents a bold outline, refined with smaller corners, precisely cut f-holes, and an exceptionally delicate edgework. The subtle fluting of the corners adds an extra touch of finesse. A remarkable aspect of this instrument is its construction from exclusively antique wood, as documented in the maker’s original certificate of authenticity from 1932.
With its powerful yet refined tonal qualities, this violin embodies the best of Neapolitan violin making. Its rich, resonant voice and outstanding projection make it is a beautiful work of art and an inspiring and reliable companion for the discerning musician.
dimensions
Back Length
358 mm
Upper Bout
166 mm
Center Bout
113 mm
Lower Bout
206 mm
String Length
327 mm
sound characteristics
Dark, Sharp and Direct
Audio
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Made by
Raffaele Calace
Raffaele Calace, a distinguished Neapolitan luthier, was active from around 1900 and crafted violins that embody the rich tradition of Neapolitan violin making. While best known for his work with plucked instruments, his violins showcase broad proportions, low arching, and a warm, resonant sound. His craftsmanship, rooted in the techniques of the Neapolitan school, earned him multiple gold medals in international exhibitions, and he is even said to have made a violin for Mussolini. Though his violin production was limited, Calace’s instruments remain valuable for their tonal depth and historical significance.
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Violin bow by Marc Laberte, Mirecourt 1940
By Marc Laberte |
This fine violin bow by Marc Laberte, made in Mirecourt in the 1940s, represents the solid craftsmanship and practical elegance of the French workshop tradition during the early 20th century. Produced within the respected Laberte-Humbert Frères atelier, it reflects the disciplined construction and reliability that made Mirecourt bows widely appreciated among professional and advanced musicians.
The round stick is carved from Pernambuco of a vivid brown color, selected for its balanced density and resilience. The wood offers an excellent combination of strength and flexibility, giving the bow a stable and confident character. The head follows the traditional French outline, cleanly defined and well proportioned, expressing the straightforward and functional aesthetic typical of Laberte’s work of this period.
Mounted in silver, the bow features a classical ebony frog fitted with a mother-of-pearl eye and a matching ebony and silver button. The fittings are executed in the refined Mirecourt style, combining durability with understated elegance. This example remains in excellent condition, preserving its original integrity and craftsmanship.
In playing, the bow offers a steady and reliable response, with secure articulation and balanced control across the string. Its dependable and robust character makes it particularly suitable for musicians seeking consistency and stability in daily performance.
A very good and representative example of Marc Laberte’s mid-century production, this bow stands as a testament to the enduring practicality and musical effectiveness of the Mirecourt bow-making tradition.
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