Cellos
Thomas Zach
Vienna, 19th century
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A rare cello by this fine Viennese maker, Zach studied with J.B. Dvorak winning prizes for his work at various European expositions. Zach modeled this cello on a Stradivari form B and chose exceptional flamed wood for its execution likely due to its export to a major U.S. orchestra. The brand stamp on the back of the cello reads BSO, H.L. Higginson indicating that the cello was most certainly made for the Boston Symphony at the request of its founder and patron H.L. Higginson.
The sound of this cello is of soloist quality, it is bold, has layers of color with a voice that fills a hall. With a storied past, we look forward to placing this unique cello in the hands of a fine artist seeking a concert instrument.
Saint Cecile Vuillaume
France, circa 1850
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One of the finest sounding cellos we have ever offered, this exceptional instrument offers a huge sound in a comfortably proportioned Stradivari B form cello. This cello was made as a partnership between J.B. Vuillaume and his brother Nicolas Vuillaume and the result is a beautiful synergy of the two maker’s combined talent. J.B. Vuillaume varnished the St. Cecile instruments in his Paris shop and oversaw the entire making of their production.
This cello features a distinctively wider grained wood in the top that J.B. Vuillaume preferred to use between 1845-1855 in emulation of the wide grained spruce he used in copying the celebrated Duport Stradivarius cello that is frequently in his own productions from that era. The varnish shows the slight crackle of Vuillaume instruments of this era that can be seen on the beautifully carved scroll and over the body of the cello.
The sound is dark and sophisticated with brilliance to project freely. This instrument is of the highest rank sound wise and compares equally to instruments made solely by J.B. Vuillaume. In fine condition, it's a perfect instrument for all types of playing and comes with a certificate of authenticity; more information is available upon request.
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Available soon
Villaume and Giron
Paris, 18th century
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This fine cello represents the old French school of violin making centered around Paris in the 18th century. Villaume and Giron were partner luthiers working in Troyes where they made instruments of very high caliber in both sound and level of workmanship.
Made on an attractive original model, this cello has a mature and unique sound.
Certification available upon request.
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Coming soon
Edward Janson
English, circa 1840
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Considered to be one of the best English makers, Janson had shops in both Manchester and Leeds where this cello was made in the 1840’s. His arching, varnish and attention to the fine details of Italian making principles has resulted in his instruments being re-labeled as old Italian instruments.
This cello has it original label, is in fine condition and features beautiful flamed continental Sycamore wood for the back and ribs. Made on a smaller English model, it is slightly less than full size and perfect for a cellist looking for an instrument with a shorter string and body length. The sound is very fine and Italianate with ample projection and color.
Di Cao Meyer
Boston, USA 1999
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Made from aged choice tonewood and featuring a flamed one piece back, this Di Cao cello was
made in Boston in 1999. It has been played professionally in the New England area and cared
for and maintained by Cao Meyer Violins in Newton. Tonally this cello is full of character,
has a strong core and a focused and projecting sound. Comfortably proportioned on a personal
model, it is a great example of this maker and perfect for solo playing or chamber music and
orchestral work.