We are pleased to offer this fine cello crafted by violinmakers Lorenzo & Tomaso Carcassi for examination, trial and purchase.
Instrument Type: Cello
Year: Circa 1770
Price: Upon Request
Maker: Lorenzo & Tomaso Carcassi
Dimensions: Back Length: 71.0 cm. Upper Bout: 34.5 cm. Middle Bout: 24.1 cm. Lower Bout: 42.4 cm. String Length: 69.0 cm.
The Cello
A superb Florentine cello by Lorenzo and Tomasso Carcassi, made circa 1770. The two-piece back is of beautifully quartered maple with even, narrow flames descending toward the center joint, with original wings added to the lower bouts by the makers. The ribs and scroll are of deeper, narrowly flamed maple. The four-piece spruce top also incorporates original wings and displays straight grain of varying widths. The varnish is a clear golden-orange over a luminous golden ground.
In excellent condition, this is an exceptionally fine example with remarkable playing qualities. Its slightly petite dimensions make it unusually comfortable and effortless to handle. The sound is rich, expansive, and highly resonant, with tremendous depth and warmth in the bass and a lyrical, singing quality in the upper register. Powerful without sacrificing refinement, the cello responds beautifully across the entire range and offers the depth, color, and character expected of a great 18th-century Italian instrument.
The Maker
Lorenzo and Tommaso Carcassi were prominent Florentine violin makers active in the mid-18th century. Trained in the Italian tradition, the brothers crafted instruments known for their elegant workmanship, warm tone, and balanced proportions. Their work shows the influence of earlier Tuscan makers while maintaining a distinct family style marked by fine varnish and graceful outlines. The Carcassi brothers earned lasting recognition, and their instruments remain admired today for their clarity, responsiveness, and enduring musical quality.
Certifications
This fine cello has been certified by W.E. Hills & Sons. Benning Violins will also certify the cello upon purchase.
Dendrochronological analysis by Peter Ratcliff dates the latest growth ring of the spruce table to 1745 and indicates that all four sections originate from the same tree. The wood shows exceptionally strong correlations with Florentine and central Italian instruments, including a cello by L. & T. Carcassi, fully supporting an attribution to L. & T. Carcassi, Florence, c.1770.
Terms of Sale
This fine cello 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 cello, please contact us using the green button at the top of this listing or call 1-818-762-1374 during business hours.