This lovely violin by Alceste Bulfari, made in 1984, is typical of his general style for the period in that, although he changed models from time to time, they are not slavish copies but exhibit a readily identifiable, individual personal style supported by superbly neat workmanship.

This instrument has a one piece back of slab-cut maple with some birds-eye figure, broad flame and the normal ‘contour-line’ grain figure associated with this cut of wood; the sides and head are of similar wood; the top of finely grained spruce; the varnish, typical of the period, is of a light gold over light golden ground.

Bulfari attended the Scuola Internazionale di Liuteria in Cremona, Italy, graduating in 1976 and later teaching at this same school. He opened his own workshop around 1980 in Castelleone, Cremona, in a peaceful old monastic building where, now in his later years, he continues to work at the bench.

The violin has a big, open, rich sound and would be suitable for the dedicated amateur, advanced student or young professional looking to purchase their first Italian violin, still at an affordable price.

Reference: VN.1253