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Unlabelled three-quarter size, probably Czech, mid 20th century. Back length 328mm. One piece back of strong narrow flame,
medium arching, orange-brown varnish. A few scratches, some old repaired woodworm tracks in the rib around the tailpin. Pegs are well-fitted but oversize, so when they eventually wear the pegbox will require bushing. Hard-edged sound, fairly even across the strings, with reasonable volume for a 3/4.
Prelude strings -
Three-quarter size German violin, unlabelled. Probably circa 1920, and
originally labelled 'The Maidstone'. Back length 335mm. Medium to low arching. One piece back with
horizontal broad flame, dark red, rather opaque, varnish. Lots of scratches and chips but no cracks.
Tone is ok, even but not particularly rich or full, not very loud. Prelude strings -
Half size French violin, labelled 'The Professor Violin. Hawkes & Son' and
dated 1927. Back length 311mm. Medium arching, two-piece back with broad flame,amber varnish.
There are no major repairs, but the varnish has been badly chipped on the belly and a corner has
been replaced. Tone is pleasant, warm and full, not as open, clear or powerful as you'd get
from a full-size 'Professor', but better than most instruments of this size. Pro-Arte strings
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Half size late 19th century German violin. Back length 314mm. Flattish arching, two-piece plain back, yellow-brown varnish. There's a repaired crack on the belly below the treble f hole, and it has been french polished over the original varnish. Tone is pleasant, warm, more characterful than a modern Chinese instrument but possibly a little weak even for a 1/2 size. Prelude strings
No. 557 in my book. £200.
No. 444 in my book. £145.
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No number, please quote 'Maynard'. £750.
Number 596 in my book. £150.
I usually have second-hand beginners outfits (mostly Chinese) in sizes down to 1/8, at prices from £50.00 to £100.00
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