Wolff Brothers- Kreuznach, Germany 1912 Violin

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Label:

The Wolf Brothers were known in Germany as “Gebruder Wolff.” In 1864 they established an instrument making factory (cottage industry) in Kreuznach, Prussia by Leopold and Ferdinand Wolff. Their workshops were renowned in Germany and the company branched out as wholesalers in London, producing instruments for the British market from 1885- 1910. These violins were labelled in English in order to market their instruments to the many shops throughout England, hence the very small words “made abroad” at the bottom of the label with no reference to county of origin. Wolff Brother instruments were much sought after during this 25-30 period in the British Isles. Yes, they were very popular until the outbreak of the Great War. Leopold’s son Julius took over the business in 1912 and a few years later lost his life in WWI. Even to this day many violin players and fiddlers find Wolff Brother instruments in English and Scottish auctions and tucked away in traditional older English homes to be set out for boot sales during the spring or summer months. The firm made well-crafted instruments using exceptional tonewoods.

Our instrument features a medium-width grain spruce top and flamed maple for the back, ribs, neck, and scroll. The violin is in very good condition and sports an honest patina and some natural wear, which is a very good sign. The instrument is dated, numbered, and carries the Wolff Brothers insignia on the far right of the label. We have carved a new set of pegs, added a new fingerboard, ebony nut, bridge, soundpost, as well as a new ebony tailpiece and chin rest.

Corpus 359.0 mm., Major Width 206.0 mm., Minor Width 165.0 mm., Rib Height 28.5 mm.

The violin has drive with power. A big mature bottom end that is clear and resonant. The response is beautiful on the bottom end while the treble strings ring clear and is brilliant to the touch. The response is fast, and the sound jumps off the strings. If you’re looking for a German player that has a great sound, slight edginess to the overtone which is gorgeous, and a little bit of guts – this is its.