Genuine antique 4/4 violin marked Salzard, with old hard case and bow; all from an old estate in Oxnard, California.
Age is unknown, however there is an old luthier's repair label inside, dated 1919. Label reads in cursive ink: "Repaired May 29 - '19 / by Harry Gilbert / Oxnard / California". That seems to suggest that it was already old at that time. Curiously, the violin is stamped "SALZARD " twice near the button on the back. French? Mirecourt? German? American? Unknown!
Obviously this instrument requires some considerable work to be playable again. Front and back plate are split; varnish is peeling or missing in areas; scuffs and scratches throughout; finger-board, nut, and tail piece are all detached; as is the bridge which is signed "AUBERT". The back of the neck has residue of adhesive tape. Also, there is a round wooden peg loose inside the body, presumably the sound post. All four pegs are present, two of which appear to be newer? The upper two appear to be original, and are very well worn.
Bow seems to be unsigned, but does have a cipher of some kind carved on the underside -- XW? Frog at slide is damaged. Curvilinear case is hard like wood, but might be stiffened leather? Unknown. Old leather handle is broken and missing, as is the key. Back of case is stamped: PATD APRIL 1 1902
This violin is clearly in need of restoration!
I'm no expert, so please feel free to advise, comment, and ask questions. Presumably, you will know more than I will about this instrument and it's maker.
Approximate measurements (in metric; +/- a few mm): 4/4
Nut to bridge area: 33 cm
Upper bouts: 13 cm
Center bouts: 8 cm
Lower bouts: 15 cm
Upper corner-to-corner: 16 cm
Lower corner-to-corner: 18 cm
Width at center rib: 4 cm
Body length (not including the button): 36 cm
Neck length: 24 cm
Entire length: 60 cm
Bow length: 73 cm
(Please do let me know if there are any additional measurements you would like to know.)
NB: This 10-day auction ends on Monday, May 13 at 6:30 PST
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