Good English violin by and labelled made by Thomas Smith at ...

Hammer

£2,700

Good English violin by and labelled made by Thomas Smith at The Harp and Hautboy in Piccadilly, London 1743, the one piece back of vary faint medium curl with similar wood to the sides, the head of plainish wood, the table of a medium width grain and the varnish of a light reddish-brown colour on a golden ground, 14 3/8", 36.50cm, bow, case

* This violin is sold with a handwritten note inscribed 'for my dear little sweetheart, in exchange for one calf (please have any calf castrated) from Stewart with deepest thanks of love' 

More Information

This violin has had a repair undertaken to the head where the scroll has completely broken off and been reset, otherwise the violin appears to just have the expected wear and tear for age with no other serious condition issues, there is a 6" hairline crack on the back running from the lower bouts to the middle which is not in the sound post area, further small stress cracks to the top and bottom of the table. See images for guidance, personal viewing always advised where possible.