Scan 17
Catalog of rare old violins, violas, violoncellos, bows of rare makes, 1921
24 lines. Read by computer on 3 September 2026. Printed page 8. See the scan on archive.org.
1In point of wood selection nothing could be more attractive. The back is formed of one piece of curly maple, with a broadish figure extending slightly upward from left to right, across its breadth.
3The sides are from the same piece, and match the back.
5The top is of the usual fine selection, which none knew so well how to make as the Cremonese masters. The model is of the flat, broad type, which was exclusively used at this time. It is covered with a ripe, plum colored varnish of wonderful richness and beauty.
7The scroll is a Bergonzi masterpiece.
9It is magnificent in preservation, and a perfect beauty in appearance. The tone is glorious.
11Price: $9,000
13JOSEPH GUARNERIUS DEL GESU, CREMONA, 1731, "THE MAYSEDER"
15From the Schley Collection
17NUMBER 5298. Of all the works of Guarnerius, there is hardly one which is more widely known than this. Formerly the property of the celebrated violinist, composer and teacher, Joseph Mayseder, from whom it takes its name, it passed through many hands, and was finally brought to this country by America's best known violinist, Madame Maude Powell. In 1916 it was sold to the late Mr. Schley, of Colorado, collector of violins and other works of art, and after his death his collection was placed with us for sale.
19For several seasons it was used by Madam Powell in her concerts as soloist with the great orchestras of Europe and America with great success. It is, therefore, an instrument of world wide celebrity.
21While the "Mayseder" belongs to the more usual type of Guarneri's work, it is an instrument of the choicest character. The back is in one piece of exquisite curly maple, having a fairly broad figure extending across its width. The top is of spruce of choice selection and straight, even grain. The sides are very handsome, and the scroll especially fine. The varnish is of a magnificent orange color, beautifully shaded. It is in a splendid state of preservation, and possesses a tone of rare beauty and unusual power. (Plate V)
23Price: $8,500
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