Rare Old Violins

270pp, illustrated with facsimile reproductions of violin and bow makers labels. In a later binding of red cloth-covered boards with gilt lettering on spine.  12mo.  Cloth just a little rounded at corners and spine ends.  Previous owner's name and a lengthy gift inscription on slightly soiled endpapers.  Lacks original wrappers and title page.  First four leaves are creased and have some tape strengthening, suggestion of toning in page gutters only. A rebound copy of Lyon and Healy's catalogue of old and rare violins and bows for 1896.  The catalogue section itself is preceded by an extensive history of violin makers and profiles of some the finest, with chapters on the Brescian School, the Cremonese School, the Venetian School, the Neapolitan School, other Italian Cities, La Belle France, French Workmen, the German Makers, the Anglo-Celtic School, Violin Bow-makers, etc.