George Pyne violin, London, 1914

English violin maker Geroge Pyne became well-known for his skill and accuracy, producing over 500 violins and violas before his death in 1921. He also worked for the iconic London firm Edward Withers for twenty years, so his prolific output is astonishing. Later violins, of which this is a good example, used a good, though pale golden-brown varnish. The tone is both clear and creamy, with subtle colouration, along with a full-bodied richness in the lower registers. Response is even across all strings, in both lower and higher positions.