Guy Aubrey Griffin Violin Sydney Australia 1944

This violin was made in Sydney by Guy Aubrey Griffin in 1944. Born in Worcestershire, England, in 1878, Guy Aubrey Griffin emigrated to Australia in 1924 and began working in Sydney as an assistant to A. E. Smith. His work in Smith’s Hunter Street workshop gave him the opportunity to study and examine fine instruments while developing his own approach to violin making. Griffin became a close friend and business associate of Smith, eventually becoming a main shareholder in A. E. Smith & Co. When he retired from the company in 1942, he dedicated more time to making his own instruments. Griffin made 173 violins, five violas and one cello during his career. His instruments are known for their strong Guarneri influence, distinctive varnish and orchestral qualities. He remains regarded as one of Australia’s important twentieth-century violin makers.

This violin is labelled "Guy Aubrey Griffin, / Made in Sydney, 1944". The body measures 352mm along the back, 165mm across the upper bouts and 205mm across the lower bouts. The back is of a highly flamed maple in one-piece with a medium to broad curl, and the ribs and scroll have been made to match. The top is of a evenly grained spruce, finished with an amber-brown varnish and fitted with ebony pegs, and tailpiece. It is in good condition.