A CLOSER LOOK AT TWO FINE GUADAGNINI VIOLIN COPIES, CIRCA 1920: WULME -HUDSON AND KNORR

Guadagnini copies are different from copies of Stradivari, del Gesu, and Amati. Unlike the latter three, the Guadagnini model was not used much prior to 1900, and rarely in commercial settings.

Here’s a look at two examples by well-known masters from 100 years ago: George Wulme-Hudson and Paul Knorr.

Violin by Paul Knorr, circa 1930

Below is the front of a J.B. Guadagnini violin, 1777

This violin by PAUL KNORR is labeled GUADAGNINI, the PK brand just peeking out at the bottom. Other than employing the typical Guad ffs (widely spaced, upright with elongated lower eyes) there is little more to suggest that he’s copying GUADAGNINI. Fortunately, it has KNORR’S best varnish and ground, as well as the fine materials and workmanship you’d expect from KNORR. Back length is 358 mm, upper bout 166 mm.

Next is a violin by GEORGE-WULME HUDSON

This violin is also just labeled GUADAGNINI. I first thought this instrument had something to do with the BISIACH shop, as they also produced some wonderful Guad copies at the same time WULME-HUDSON was working. It wasn’t until I saw a twin at a prominent violin dealer’s shop that I knew for sure what this is. Labeled as from PIACENZA, this violin does seem fairly faithful to the model Guad used there. This is the type of violin that earned him the nickname “the second JOHN LOTT” It has a very attractive one piece back, likely english wood. Back length is 353.5, upper bout is 166.5.