Viola By William Forster, London 1770. William Forster was born 1739 and started his own establishment in 1762. Famously made a cello for George IV and is generally regarded as one of the finest English makers. His instruments are renowned for their quality of tone and the high standard of workmanship.
The example offered here is typical of Forster's work and has a one piece back of maple of a faint medium-fine curl slightly descending across the back from the bass down towards the treble. The pegbox and scroll are of a similar curl with the ribs of a mixed faint medium-fine curl and palin wood.
The viola has a one piece front of pine of medium-fine grain in the treble flank broadening towards the bass flank.
The varnish is a rich red-brown colour on a yellow ground. Label Reads:
Labelled on the inner bass centre rib
William Forster
Length of back 382mmWidth upper bout 182mmWidth centre bout 126mmWidth lower bout 226mmCondition ReportPlease note that the condition report lists all repairs that have been historically undertaken. The instrument is, however, offered in a fully restored condition and has been fully and professionally setup in our workshops. Any repairs have either been conducted by ourselves or fully inspected and the quality of the repair verified by our workshop. No further repairs are required. Details listed in this condition report are for information purposes only. Front: Upper bass edge, three cracks. Treble upper corner small crack running up from centre bout. Soundpost crack and other damage around bridge area. Internal bell patch fitted.
All fully and professionally repaired to a high standard.A written valuation for insurance purposes of £9,900 is included with this instrument
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