SOLD John Betts, London 1792

Although the Betts workshop is known to have employed several violin makers, this violin is most likely to have been made by John Betts himself.
 
Labelled:
"John Betts, No. 2 North Piazza, Royal Exchange London 1792"
 
Marked in ink, "Retabli Soigneusement Par J. A. Mann 1868"
 
The front is made from fairly wide grain spruce with a delightful tightly flamed one-piece back. Matching ribs.
 
It has a one-piece lower rib marked by a gouge mark cut beneath the end pin.
 
Unlike earlier violins from the Betts workshop this violin is unbranded.
 
Plentiful original red tinged varnish throughout - hardly any wear, practically mint condition.
 
Original neck/scroll - neck built up at root, although the button has been pinned. Linings and blocks made from pine. Well repaired f hole crack.
 
Delightful precise work.
 
Magnificent condition. Has been in the same family for the last 100 years.
 
LOB: 355mm
 
Suitable for professional players.