Bow Hand Made

Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case

Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case
Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case
Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case
Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case
Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case
Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case
Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case
Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case
Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case
Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case
Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case
Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case

Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case

This viola was made in 1993 by François Bignon in Birmingham, who now works at Moseley Violins / Unison Strings where the famous Violectra instruments are made. It's a large instrument, 16.5in.

The pattern is based on one by the English luthier Henry Furber. It has a really rich, full tone, especially in the lower registers.

Obviously string choice will affect the sound but over the years I've used all the major brands and it's always sounded great. It has a gorgeous one-piece maple back, spruce front, and there are several special touches, in particular the cello-style pegbox with ornamental carved heel.

The pegs, tailpiece and chinrest are all boxwood. As shown in the pictures, it has a few scars from a repair carried out after being damaged in a recording studio in 2002.

It went back to François to have the work done and came back sounding even better than it did before. I have the original Certificate of Origin plus all the documents relating to the repair work.

The viola also comes with a bow and a new Pedi steel reinforced case with backpack straps and a music pocket. It would be an ideal instrument for an advanced student about to start college / university, or a solid working instrument for a professional. Due to its size it's unlikely to be suitable for a child. Please study the pictures carefully and don't hesitate to contact me on 07962 449844 with any queries, request additional pictures or to arrange to try it if required.

I have also confirmed with François that he will be happy to answer any questions about it. You can contact him at the number on the Moseley Violins website. Collection in person from Newcastle area would be preferable.


Viola, 16.5in, handmade in England, 1993, with bow and Pedi case