A Rare Italian Viola By Cesare Maggiali, 1968. 405mm or 16.”

Cesare Maggiali (1886-1972) was a 20th century violin maker from Carrara, Italy who was also active in Fossola and La Spezia. Although he primarily worked as a teacher, he crafted 150 violins, 10 violas, and 3 cellos over the course of his long career. Maggiali was initially mentored by the Florentine maker, Igino Sderci, and exhibited instruments in competitions in Cremona in 1937 and Rome in 1954. He was awarded a gold medal at the latter event, underscoring the mastery of classical principles consistent in his making. Predominantly, Stradivarius and Guarneri patterned instruments with clean craftsmanship and a highly defined personal style which has seen his violins achieve pricing of $30,000-$35,000. Of course, his violas are considerably more rare.

This 405mm viola from the late oeuvre of Cesare Maggiali was crafted in 1968, when the maker was close to 82 years of age, and is quite likely among the last instruments he completed. Consistent still, and such a joy to play that I haven’t yet decided if it will be for sale. Presently, planning on performing several summer engagements with it.