I saw this violin at the last Bromptons sale yesterday and wondered if anyone had any thoughts on it?
http://www.bromptons.co/auction/23rd-june-2014/lots/258-a-very-fine-and-interesting-italian-violin-after-peter-guarneri-of-mantua.html
It has a really interesting outline. I like how the upper corners jut out almost horrizontaly. I don't recall seeing a violin with a similar outline.
I also love the choice of wood. Is it what some people refer to as 'oppio'?
I thought I would post this in the hope of hearing other people's opinions about it. Does it look particularly 'Mantuan', if so, are there certain characteristics which go with that school? Interesting that it is sold with paperwork stating its a Balestieri and it's listed as after Peter of Mantua.
Any thoughts?
A quick disclaimer - I didn't buy it so I'm not fishing for attribution hints - I'm just curious