A particularly impressive violin by the prolific 19th century English maker George Craske, made in Stockport c.1880. The violin is beautifully modelled after Guarneri del Gesu and great care has been taken to perfect the arching and varnish on this instrument. Craske’s work varies hugely but this example is among the best seen, confidently and accurately made.

The violin has a posthumous label, “Made by George Craske, (born 1795, died 1888) and sold by William E. Hill & Sons, London.

Tonally the violin is very balanced, characterful and vintage sounding. It has the charm and earthiness of an old violin whilst being confident and sweet. Definitely one to be tried.

About The Maker:

George Craske first studied violin making with William Forster in London and began making instruments for Thomas Dodd and the firm of Muzio Clementi in the early 19th century. After relocating several times in search of a satisfactory place to open a shop, he settled in Birmingham, where he began an extremely prolific career as a talented copyist of Amati, Guarneri, and Stradivari. Craske was astoundingly productive, making over 2,500 instruments in his lifetime, all the more impressive because he worked without assistance and in complete seclusion.

According to his labels, Craske was still making instruments in 1888, the year he died. The quality of his craftsmanship varies, but can be high. Materials, which he probably acquired from William Forster III, are usually very good. After Craske's death his entire inventory was left to his life-long friend George Crompton, who sold them to the firm of W.E. Hill & Sons for resale.