|
Modelling the curves of a viola
body involves several different tools. Francesco starts using
a gouge,
then finger planes
of decreasing sizes. Finally, instead of sand paper, a piece of
sharkskin or a plant called "horse-tail" (Equisetum
palustre), rich in silicon. |
 |
In
this photo we see a cello back (model after Domenico Montagnana)
after modelling it with a flat gouge.
To control the curves Dalla
Quercia uses highline so that the shape can acquire a third dimension. |
Different sizes of finger planes used
to shape the internal and external curves
|
Linings and blocks are generally made either
of spruce or of willow.
Guarnieri del Gesù used spruce. |
Block and linings in old spruce (18th.
century) in a violin of Dalla Quercia. |
A label is no conclusive proof of genuineness in itself (It is
possible to see fake labels almost every day). That's why I brand
my instruments on different inner positions and deliver them with
warranty certificates. I started doing so after recent scandals
involving some Italian dealers selling Chinese instruments as if
they were Italian. |
Labels on more recent instruments will
be different to those shown above. Whilst the border is always
the same, the town may be: Cremona, Bologna, Bosa or Marseille |
|
The closing of the instrument |
