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29:

A VIOLA BY WILLIAM FORSTER Sr., LONDON, c. 1775

29: A VIOLA BY WILLIAM FORSTER Sr., LONDON, c. 1775


Labeled, "William Forster Violin, Violoncello, Tenor and Bow-maker to their Royal Highnesses the Prince of Wales & Duke of Cumberland London" Signed to the label.
Labeled to the inside treble rib, "William Forster."

Inscribed illegibly to the inside top treble back. Bearing its original neck and currently set up for historical playing. 

LOB: 39.4 cm

This viola was made by William Forster II, known as "Old Forster”, who is widely recognised as one of the leading violin makers of the English school. He moved to London in c. 1759, establishing his own shop in Duke’s Court where he soon received a Royal Warrant from the Prince of Wales. This viola, made in c. 1775, represents some of his best and most well preserved work. Plentiful in original varnish and showing Forster's characteristic model, it is presently in an almost entirely original state, complete with its original label and neck.

Ending on Mar 30 at
1:44 PM London / 2:44 PM Berlin / 8:44 AM New York

Estimate: £7,000–10,000

Bidding opens Mar 19, 2026 11:00 AM GMT

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VAT symbols on Description:

Ω - TI - non-antique - additional 20% import VAT and 2% duty charged on the hammer
‡ - TI - antique - additional 5% import VAT charged on the hammer
† - Normal VAT rules - 20% VAT charged on hammer and premium
No Symbol - Auctioneer's Margin Scheme - 20% VAT-in-lieu charged on the premium (except when exported within 3 months)

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