1/4 English Child’s Cello – William Wade 1893 (EN012) - $4,500 Canadian

1/4 English Child’s Cello – William Wade 1893 (EN012) - $4,500 Canadian

This is a rare late Victorian English ¼ sized child’s cello that is full of surprises.

The first surprise is that it is still around; young children tend to not care for instruments in the same way as adults and few old ones survive. They were not common either as owning a child’s cello was an expensive luxury reserved only for families with means.

The second surprise is the unusual shape of the ‘f’ holes and the uniquely carved scroll. Both of these are characteristics of William Wade, a maker from Leeds in the North of England.

Finally the label: ‘Made by William Wade for his grandson Tom Christopher Coles for his 10th birthday present, December 30 1893.’ The cello was obviously made with utmost care by a loving grandfather.

The instrument has been fully restored and is in good playing condition. It is fitted with Larson strings and the sound is surprisingly powerful for such a small instrument.

The length of back is 570mm. High resolution photos can be sent on request.