Alfred E. Chanot, Mirecourt, France 1927 (FR035) - $18,500 Canadian

Alfred E. Chanot, Mirecourt, France 1927 (FR035) - $18,500 Canadian

Alfred Ernest Chanot (1890-1961) was a member of the distinguished Chanot family of violin-makers, whose lineage traces back to his great-great-grandfather Joseph Chanot (1760-1832). The family gained prominence through Joseph's son George (1801-1883), whose exceptional craftsmanship and business acumen established the family’s reputation. A contemporary of Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume, George was renowned as a skilled copyist of fine instruments.

George's son—George II—trained under his father before relocating to London, where he established his own workshop in 1858. Alfred apprenticed under George II, mastering the family's accumulated expertise. Despite his abilities, Alfred's own instruments are rare; he found greater financial success in repair work and in selling instruments by other makers, which he would often adjust and refine before sale. This pragmatic approach was not uncommon among skilled luthiers, who frequently allowed economic realities to shape their careers.

This cello was imported, regulated, and sold by Alfred in London in 1927. It was made in France, likely in Mirecourt, and acquired through the Chanot family's established connections. It may well have been crafted in the workshop of Chanot & Chardon, a firm owned by relatives.

The cello is currently set up with Jargar strings and a Wittner tailpiece. The fingerboard has been dressed, and careful adjustments have been made to both the bridge and soundpost. The instrument is in fine condition with remarkably few repairs for a century-old cello. It is highly playable and produces a dark, warm tone.

The length of back is 755mm, high resolution photos available on request.