José Contreras I
Violin maker
(c. 1710 – c. 1780)
Leading 18th-century Spanish maker José Contreras probably never traveled to Italy, though his work shows a fine understanding of the work of Cremonese masters. Historical evidence shows Contreras applied for the position of repairer and restorer of instruments at the court of Felipe V, and it is likely that there he was exposed to the fine string instruments played by Italian court musicians. His work follows Stradivari closely in style, workmanship, and sound quality. Contreras' son José Meliton and grandson Jose Pedro continued the family tradition into the 19th century.
Price History
- The auction record for this maker is $70,343 in Jun 2005, for a violin.
- 10 auction price results.
View all auction prices for José Contreras I
Instruments
Violin -
No Date
Madrid
Cello -
1756
Madrid
Cello -
1762
Granada
Cello -
1769
Granada
Cello -
c. 1770
Madrid