12th June 2012

The story behind the instrument: Viola by P.J. Mantegazza

In each sale we hold there are more than three hundred instruments and bows, and behind every single one there is a small story.

Early this March I had a telephone call from a client responding to a Brompton’s advert. ‘Do you know anything about the maker Pietro Mantegazza?’ he asked. I did, luckily, and after a short discussion, later that day I jumped on a train.

I arrived at the house not sure what to expect, as so often the promise of a great instrument ends in mild or sometimes bitter disappointment for both of us. I was shown into the drawing room where a rather ordinary case lay on a sofa. However inside the case was an extraordinary viola – a jewel of a viola and in amazing condition, covered in original varnish and bearing an original label (in fact the best Italian viola I had seen for years and a perfect size at 16 1/8″). I discovered that it was insured for a fraction of its market value

After giving some good news to the owner about the probable value of the viola (it does make a very nice change to give good news), they were amazed and very sensibly consigned it to our June sale where we hope it will find its way to a great musician.

Originally the viola had belonged to the client’s mother, a professional violist, who had many years ago bought it from the legendary company W E Hill and Son, although unfortunately the Hill certificate has since been lost.

The viola has an amazing sound and is certainly a concert instrument. What price will it make in our June 27th sale? I guess the market will decide – it always does.

(The viola is now accompanied by a certificate from Peter Biddulph.)