Lorenzo/Tomaso Carcassi Violin?

Your Question:

Carcassi Scroll

Subject: bought this violin on e bay for 3000k is it really carcassi

I bought this instrument on e bay from a german dealer. It is labelled Carcassi, though I of course assume firstly it is not that at all. The label looks almost brand new. When I got it it had a great old italian sound (I know italian since I own a Giusseppe Gagliano.) I play in the Chicago Symphony and needed a cheap ravinia instrument. because the violin sounds so good I am willing to keep it. The link to pictures of the violin are here:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item@0222552468&ssPageNameSTRK:MEWNX:IT

Even if it is an old italian instrument it looks as if the violin has had a thick new coat of lacquer put on over a brown thick varnish. It looks terrible and scandalous that whoever did this to the violin but surprisingly the violin has a great sound and I would think just from the sound it would be an authentic Carcassi. I even like the sound over my Gagliano. Anyways, it would be nice to hear your opinion.

Regards,
CSO
first violinist

My Answer:

Thank you for your inquiry.  The eBay link has been disabled so, I am unable to view the instrument.  I should mention that there is a dealer from Germany who sells lots of instruments on eBay, which are known to be fakes.  I have no idea if this is that dealer or not.  From personal experience I have found purchasing instruments or bows on eBay can be very risky.  

There are several violin experts in Chicago.  I would suggest taking it in for an opinion.  Here are a couple of recommendations, although you may have a violin dealer that you have a relationship with.

1.  Jim Warren at Kenneth Warren and Son 312- 427-7475 or

2. John Becker at Bein & Fushi 312-663-0150

Both shops are within walking distance of Orchestra Hall, Chicago.

If the violin is truly a Lorenzo or Tomaso Carcassi it is worth quite a bit of money.  Based on the opinion of an expert it would be worth it to have an appraisal and a certificate done.  Generally appraisals and certificates are based on the value of the instrument and will cost quite a bit but would be worth doing because they will document the value and authenticity of the instrument.  If the violin has had an outer coat of lacquer the value can be greatly effected.  A good luthier should be able to let you know if this can safely be removed, whilst preserving the original varnish.

  Please keep in mind that sound is subjective and an appraiser typically bases the value of an instrument on authenticity, provenance and condition.  I hope that you find out this is a real Carcassi!  If so, then you have made quite a purchase.  In my opinion, if it is a genuine Carcassi, you might want to look for a lesser instrument for outdoor use at Ravinia.  Please let me know what you find out.  Best wishes!