Instrument sells for thousands, despite being unplayable

A Violincello that was discovered in Montgomery has sold for £3,600 at auction.

Shropshire fine art auctioneers Halls hit the top note at their auction when the early 20^th century Mittenwald violincello reached an excellent price, despite needing restoration. 

The musical instrument claimed the top price at Halls Fine Art’s successful pictures, ceramics, collectables and modern design auction in Shrewsbury.

The violincello was made in Mittenwald, Germany, which was established as a major centre for violin making in the early 18^th century and sold by dealers John & Arthur Beare of 179, Wardour Street, London in 1946 to a relative of the vendor.

“We discovered the violincello at one of our bi-monthly antiques valuation events in Montgomery,” explained Alexander Clement, Halls Fine Art’s senior general valuer and Asian art specialist.

“Despite currently being unplayable and needing restoration work, it attracted interest because it was by a known and sought-after maker and had had very good provenance.”

PICTURE: The Mittenwald violincello that sold for £3,600.