R & M Millant Violin Paris c.1938

This violin was made in Paris in 1938 by Roger and Max Millant, in collaboration with André Roussel. Roger and Max were brothers, and the pupils of their grandfather, luthier Sébastien Auguste Deroux. Max Millant gained making experience in several different workshops over the years, namely Leon Mougenot in Mirecourt and Dykes and Sons in London, before setting up a workshop with his brother in 1923. They received a number of prizes during their time, including two 1st prizes for a quartet of instruments in Cremona and La Haye in 1949, and another for a viola in Ascoli Piceno in 1960. This instrument does come with a certificate of authenticity and photos by Roger Lanne. 

This violin is labelled "LES PETIT FILS DE S.A. DEROUX / ROGER ET MAX MILLANT / 51 Rue de Rome - PARIS / No. 159 Annee 1938 / TYPE MILLANT-ROUSSEL". The body measures 354mm along the back, 167mm across the upper bouts and 204mm across the lower bouts. It has a two-piece back of highly flamed maple, with a broad, textured curl, and matching ribs and scroll. The top is a very finely grained spruce. The violin has a dark gold-brown varnish with rosewood pegs and an ebony tailpiece. The violin is in good condition. 

This violin has a bright sound and is most suited for solo playing and chamber music at a tertiary level or higher. It is a great exemple of a French style and sound, with a smooth, bright, and well-projected tone, especially in the upper register. 

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