1891 JM Phipps 4/4 Vintage Violin for Grandson Milton – 19th Century American Dr. J.M. Phipps MD 4/4 Full Size 362mm Walnut Varnish Owned & Played by Antony / Anthony Zungolo w/ OHSC Evansville, IL United States (May 1891)

– For your consideration is this vintage 1891 Dr. J.M. Phipps MD 4/4 violin with the original hard case and canvas case cover.
– Hand-inscribed in pencil as having been made for Dr. JM Phipps’ grandson “Milton” it was later acquired and played by Antony Zungolo. Mr. Zungolo, mostly credited as “Anthony” online, appears to have been a highly regarded and very active violinist of both live and studio performance. He performed in the orchestra for Disney’s classic 1940 film “Fantasia,” played on both Nancy Sinatra and Clea Bradford albums, as well as, had “The American Little Symphony of Philadelphia” on his resume. He was clearly an accomplished professional violinist, and this was one of his main violins.
– Dr. J.M. Phipps is virtually an unknown violin-maker, with only several of his violins having been sold at auction in the past several decades. From the limited information available, it appears that this particular violin is one of his earlier creations, and is the only one documented with a one-piece back.
– Incredibly refined with a pronounced curvature and a similarly deep carve, this rare violin is as unique as it is incredibly well-crafted.
– The one-piece flame maple back is very attractive and in perfect structural shape.
– The top appears to be European spruce, the grain of which is incredibly uniform. The beautiful top has a near sculptural shape, and the belly is bulbous. Undoubtedly, this contributes to the wonderful warm sound of this special instrument. It’s loud, clear, and harmonically rich.
– Finished in an attractive walnut varnish, it looks quite handsome.
– The scroll detail is spectacular with just the slightest hint of personality, otherwise being meticulously symmetrical. The f-holes are also very crisp with the purfling being exceptionally executed.
– The Hill style tailpiece appears to be original or perhaps era appropriate, and it matches the overall build approach to this fantastic fiddle.
– Again, it includes the original case and corresponding canvas case cover.
– It does not include a bow.
– Scroll through the entire gallery to view all 39 images available. All photos are of the actual violin.
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