Scan 156
The violin: its famous makers and their imitators, 1884
4 lines. Read by computer on 28 September 2026. Printed page 100. See the scan on archive.org.
1line and character of the varnish and the quality of the tone resembling in some measure the instruments of the Brothers Amati. It is, however, reserved to a few Italian connoisseurs to distinguish them. Those of large pattern, and even of medium size, that have not been injured by unskilful restorers, are scarce, and realize high prices." These remarks, suggested sixty years since, by so able a connoisseur as Count Cozio, possess a peculiar interest, and cannot fail to interest the reader. As Lancetti remarks, they are of two patterns, one larger than the other. The large one is, of course, the more valuable; it is flatter, and altogether better finished. The Violoncellos of Cappa are among the best of the second-class Italian instruments, and are well worthy the attention of the professor and amateur. The varnish is frequently of very rich quality, its colour resembling that of Amati in many instances. Lancetti remarks upon the difference between those instruments of this make, as regards wood, made in Cremona, and those made in Piedmont, the first-named being made of wood of foreign growth, and the last with that of home growth, which is coarse and plain. The backs are whole, or in two parts, seldom cut on the cross.
3Cappa ——. Confusion has arisen from the dates on the Cappa labels extending, it is said, from 1590 to 1712, some dating from Saluzzo, others from Turin. To credit one maker with this long line
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