We are pleased to offer this fine violin – the “ex-Jack Benny” – crafted by violinmaker Jean Baptiste Vuillaume for examination, trial and purchase.
Instrument Type: Violin
Item #: 000-1135
Year: 1845 – 1850
Price: Sold
Maker: Jean Baptiste Vuillaume
Dimensions: Back Length, 35.7 cm.
The Violin
This fine violin – the “ex-Jack Benny” – crafted by the renowned French violinmaker Jean Baptiste Vuillaume, presents a rare opportunity for discerning violinists and collectors to own not just an exceptionally fine instrument, but an important piece of violin history. This masterpiece features exquisitely figured two-piece maple back with striking medium flame, perfectly matched sides, and premium spruce top. Distinguished by Vuillaume’s signature golden orange varnish and expert antiquing, this Stradivarius-model violin produces a commanding voice with a powerful lower register and a brilliance in the upper positions. Professional violinists will appreciate its perfectly balanced tonal palette and effortless projection. This remarkable violin represents the pinnacle of 19th-century French craftsmanship. Contact us to arrange a private viewing of this important and rare instrument.
The “ex-Jack Benny”, formerly owned by the legendary American entertainer, Jack Benny.
This violin is among several outstanding violins that Jack Benny collected and played during his long and illustrious career. This violin, along with a Pressenda and a renowned Stradivarius violin, are among the finest instruments in this great performer’s collection.
The Maker
Master French violinmaker Jean Baptiste Vuillaume revolutionized 19th-century violin craftsmanship from his Paris workshop. His exceptional ability to create fine violins, particularly his masterful replications of Stradivari and Guarneri instruments, led to the production of over 3,000 instruments sought after by distinguished violinists worldwide. His acquisition of Luigi Tarisio’s collection, including Stradivari’s ‘Messiah’ violin, cemented his legendary status. Today, Vuillaume’s fine violins are coveted for their powerful projection and warm, rich tonal qualities, representing the perfect fusion of historical craftsmanship with innovative techniques. His instruments remain highly prized among professional musicians and collectors alike.
Certifications
This fine violin bow has been certified by John & Arthur Beare, Charles Enel, Chet Dowling, Hans Weisshaar and Shar.
- Established in 1892, London’s J & A Beare is a prestigious fine violin dealership renowned for their authentication and restoration expertise, serving musicians globally with exceptional stringed instruments and repairs.
- French violinmaker Charles Enel (1880-1954) trained with Grillon and Bazin before establishing his Paris workshop in 1911. His fine violins, totaling over 215, are celebrated for their exceptional craftsmanship.
- American writer and producer Chet Dowling (1929-2011) worked on shows like “Laugh-In” and “Three’s Company.” In 1994, he authenticated a fine violin previously owned by violinist Jack Benny.
- Violinmaker Hans Weisshaar (1913-1991) established his influential Los Angeles workshop in 1947. His protégé Margaret Shipman continued his legacy, together advancing modern fine violin restoration techniques through their pioneering manual.
- Founded in 1962 by Charles and Michael Avsharian in Ann Arbor, Shar Music is a leading North American supplier of stringed instruments, bows, and related musical accessories.
Terms of Sale
This fine violin is available for examination and trial and has been meticulously set up to our exacting specifications before addition to our catalog. If you wish to inquire further about this violin, please contact us using the green button at the top of this listing or call 1-818-762-1374 during business hours.
