A Rare Petite Viola by Johann Christian Hammig, 1756. 15 1/4”
Very pleased to offer this fine, petite, 18th century viola crafted in 1756 by Johann Christian Hammig (1732 - 1816), when he was just 24 years of age. With a back length of just over 15 1/4,” this viola offers a color and depth of sound that is quite uncommon for its size with both bite to attacks and a supple response. Sure to please the most demanding of players, whether violinist or violist searching for ease and facility of technique from a smaller instrument.
Also of note: an anomaly; JCH branded violins ICH, and Johann Gottfried Hamm (different family, but similar dates and same area branded them IGH.) I cannot find any record of instruments branded CCH.
Interesting, but unrelated: Hammig’s sons continued using his label and also one including themselves for a number of years after his death.