Francesco Bissolotti Violin Cremona 2012

This violin was made by Francesco Bissolotti in Cremona in 2012. Bissolotti was born in 1929, and initially trained as a wood-carver early in his life. Subsequently, he studied under Gaetano Sgarabotto at the Cremona Violin Making School between 1957 and 1961, where he also had contact with makers such as Ornati, Garimberti, and Sacconi, the last of which became an important mentor for him. In 1962, he began working with Sacconi to reorganise and study the instruments in the Stradivarius Museum, a process which greatly informed his style and process for years to come. Four of his sons have also become violin makers, and continue his legacy of traditional Cremonese making in his workshop. It comes with a certificate of authenticity from the maker. 

It is labelled "Francesco Bissolotti Cremonese / fece Cremona Anno 2012". The body measures 361mm along the back, 172mm across the upper bouts and 212mm across the lower bouts. It has a one-piece back of well flamed maple with a tight curl with matching ribs and scroll, and the top is fairly wide-grained spruce. It is finished with a boxwood tailpiece and chinrest, and rosewood pegs, and the varnish is light orange-gold. 

This violin possesses a remarkably broad and open sound, capturing a less common facet of traditional Italian tone. It still has the classic qualities of very clear, bright resonance that are expected in fine Italian violins, but it marries this with a lower and warmer character. It has an easy playability, and has a readily apparent palette of colours. It would be best suited to people playing at a professional level, especially in chamber and solo formats. 

Please contact us if you would like to book an appointment to try this beautiful Cremonese violin.