About this instrument
French violin, circa 1870/1880 – made for Hamma & Co., Stuttgart
This characterful French violin was probably made around 1870/1880 for the renowned Stuttgart firm Hamma & Co. It combines the robust, practical construction of late 19th-century French workshops with the historical significance of one of Germany’s best-known dealers in stringed instruments.
Hamma & Co. was founded in Stuttgart in 1864 by Fridolin Hamma. Hamma was regarded as a recognised connoisseur and dealer in fine stringed instruments. The company expressly presented itself as a “dealer in old master instruments”, but also commissioned its own instruments from various experienced violin makers and specialist workshops. This violin therefore belongs to the early and particularly interesting period of this long-established firm.
The instrument has a generously conceived, harmoniously proportioned model. The softly rounded upper and lower bouts are attractively balanced by the open C-bouts. Distinctive, slightly outward-sweeping corners and long, expressive f-holes give the table an unmistakable appearance. The workmanship is not excessively refined or academic, but direct, robust and focused on good tonal function.
The spruce table displays predominantly straight, medium-width grain. Particularly appealing is the one-piece maple back, with broad horizontal flame that is especially prominent in the lower area. The ribs and neck are also made from attractively flamed maple. Viewed from the side, the full and harmoniously flowing arching of the body becomes apparent, lending the instrument additional visual depth.
The warm varnish ranges through golden, orange-brown and reddish-brown hues. On the table it appears darker and more intense in places, while the back and ribs reveal their golden ground more clearly. Numerous age-appropriate traces of playing and use, together with naturally occurring varnish wear, document the long history of this violin, now almost 150 years old. It is precisely this honest patina that gives it considerable character and an authentic historical presence. The compact, robustly carved scroll is very well suited to the instrument’s overall straightforward appearance.
Tonally, this violin is a decidedly positive surprise. For its price range, it possesses a remarkably large, mature and powerful tone. Its pronounced tonal depth is especially attractive: the sound is not merely dark, but has a firm core, ample substance and a well-supported foundation. At the same time, the violin offers abundant power and energy, allowing it to project with presence and sound distinctly larger than its price might initially suggest.
Its particular appeal lies in its combination of depth, volume and carrying power. The sound remains characterful and offers sufficient colour for a range of musical expression. This is not simply a loud instrument, but a violin with genuine tonal substance and a convincing, carrying voice.
A highly interesting historical French violin for musicians seeking a powerful old sound, considerable depth and an exceptionally good relationship between price and tonal quality. Its association with Hamma & Co., its characterful appearance and, above all, its tonal qualities make it an instrument that is not easily found in this price class.