French violin labelled “Chipot – Vuillaume” Mirecourt, c.1915

As was common with established enterprises, the ‘J.B. Chipot-Vuillaume’, business name and workshop passed from this illustrious maker to Charles Drouin in the late 1800’s and continued to be crafted by the master artisans of the Mirecourt school for many years.

The violin arching is loosely based on an Amati model with the f-holes perhaps looking forward to the Stradivari ‘Golden Period’. The back plate is of two pieces of beautifully figured maple, the sides and head of similarly bold, flamed maple, the scroll chamfers picked out in black; the top plate, a choice piece of exquisite tonewood and all covered in a warm golden-brown varnish; the length of the back is 358mm.

In practically mint condition, this beautiful violin would be suitable for the advanced student young professional or those seeking a future in the teaching profession.

Reference: VN.1377