This violin by Alceste Bulfari, made in 1979, is clearly inspired by the work of Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesu, but it is not a ‘bench-copy’. It exhibits Bulfari’s readily identifiable, individual personal style. As with all of his work, it is supported by superbly neat workmanship.

With a striking back plate of two pieces of quarter-sawn, narrow to medium flamed maple, sides and head of similar wood and a top plate of finely grained spruce; the varnish, typical of the period, is of a warm 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, in his later years, he continues to work at the bench.

The violin plays easily and offers good volume and projection, the sound is clear, rich and full. It would be ideally suitable for the dedicated amateur, advanced student or young professional looking to purchase their first Italian violin, still at an affordable price.

Reference: VN.1239