We are pleased to offer this fine viola crafted by Paul Hart for examination, trial and purchase.
Instrument Type: Viola
Year: Circa 1975
Price: $20,000.00
Maker: Paul Hart
Dimensions: 16 1/8″
The Viola
This Brescian-style viola by Paul Hart showcases refined craftsmanship and bold design. It features elegant double purfling and elongated f-holes reminiscent of early Northern Italian work. The back is carved from a striking one-piece slab-cut maple, with irregular flames that sweep across the surface in a dramatic display. Similar maple is used for the ribs, while the scroll is shaped from tighter-flamed, quarter-cut maple, its volutes marked with strong, expressive tool work. The two-piece spruce top is of straight, even grain, contributing to the instrument’s tonal clarity. Finished in a rich orange-brown varnish over a golden yellow ground, the viola has been tastefully antiqued to evoke a sense of timeless character.
The Maker
Paul Hart is a master luthier based in Mount Pleasant, Utah, renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship in violin, viola, cello, and double bass making. Born in 1948 in Oxford, England, and raised in Provo, Utah, he began building instruments in high school and later trained under Peter Prier in Salt Lake City. In 1974, he joined the faculty of the Violin Making School of America, mentoring future leading luthiers such as Jay Ifshin, David Gusset, and Guy Rabut. Hart has received numerous accolades, including Gold Medals from the Violin Society of America for viola (1978) and cello (1980) workmanship, as well as a Bronze Medal for double bass in 2024. Since founding his own workshop in 1978, he has crafted over 150 violins, 130 violas, 140 cellos, and a variety of other stringed instruments.
Terms of Sale
This fine viola 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 viola, please contact us using the green button at the top of this listing or call 1-818-762-1374 during business hours.