Nathaniel Cross
Violin maker
(1686 – 1751)
Nathaniel Cross, son of an engraver, began his violin-making career in the early 1700s and partnered with Barak Norman around 1713. A Norman viol from that year is inscribed 'Nathaniel Cross wrought my back and belly', and Cross' name appeared alongside Norman's on a violin label in 1724, which included the address 'St Paul's Churchyard'. After Norman's death, Cross took on assistants, including Alexander Kennedy, great-uncle of Thomas Kennedy. From 1725, he operated under his own label at 'ye Crown in Piccadilly', later relocating to the George Inn, Aldersgate in 1730, St. James, Aldermanbury in 1733, and finally to the 'Bass Viol' in Bow Churchyard, Cheapside. A prolific maker, he generally followed a Stainer model, favoring small cellos of 27"-28" (68.5cm-71cm) and using plain materials finished with clear yellow varnish. His influence is evident in the work of later London makers, and he often branded his instruments with the initials 'N. C.' surmounted by a cross.
Price History
- The auction record for this maker is $30,502 in Jun 1994, for a viola.
- 16 auction price results.
View all auction prices for Nathaniel Cross
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