Wllliam Robinson violin, London, 1934

William Robinson started off as a saddle maker before re-inventing himself as a highly skilled, prolific and distinguished violin maker.  This is a very fine example of his later Guarneri model violins, which are considered to be superior to his early work.  The oil-based varnish is a lovely, warm red-brown colour, enhanced by natural wear patterns.  The wood is well-selected, contributing to an open, resonant, characterful sound which speaks easily at all dynamics.  The bass is rich and the treble strong and brilliant.