Jean-Baptiste Thouvenal, Mirecourt c.1850 (FR034) – $23,000 Canadian

Jean-Baptiste Thouvenal, Mirecourt c.1850 (FR034) – $23,000 Canadian

This cello is branded internally as Thouvenal Henry à Paris. Our initial research pointed to Henri Thouvenel (1851–1929), a Mirecourt maker and descendant of the Thouvenal violin-making dynasty founded by his great-grandfather Charles Thouvenal (1757–1839). Henri worked primarily in the popular Stradivari forma B pattern, branding his instruments à Mirecourt.

Several features, however, argue against this being Henri’s work. The back length of 740mm falls short of the forma B standard, and the style, varnish character, and à Paris branding are all uncharacteristic of Henri's known instruments. These details point instead to an earlier maker in the family line: his grandfather, Jean-Baptiste Thouvenal (1788–1858).

Jean-Baptiste had married into the Henry family; another distinguished luthier lineage and following a well-established Mirecourt custom of the era, he appended his wife's surname to his own. The resulting brand, Thouvenal Henry, invoked two respected violin-making names and strengthened his professional standing accordingly. Although made in Mirecourt, the addition of à Paris suggests the instrument was either destined for the discerning Parisian market or crafted in the refined Parisian style then in vogue: slender scrolls, delicate purfling, and an elegance of proportion that sets this cello apart from the more robust workshop output of later generations.

The cello is in fine condition with few repairs, these being mostly to the ribs. The fingerboard has been resurfaced and a new bridge, nut and sound-post cut. It is fitted with Larsen treble and Spirocore Tungsten bass strings; the default choice of many professionals. A carbon fiber endpin has been installed and the pegs have been refitted.

The slightly smaller size makes it easy to play and with no noticeable compromise with the quality of sound which is rich and clear.

The length of back is 740mm. High resolution photos available on request.