Michael Hepplewhite Bench Made English Cello 1989 (EN011) SOLD

Michael Hepplewhite Bench Made English Cello 1989 (EN011) SOLD

This Stradivari style full-size cello is from the Hepplewhite studio workshop in Malvern, England. Hepplewhite instruments are handmade and only ordered by commission and are prized by professional and amateur musicians alike. This cello was commissioned in 1989 and was made by Michael Hepplewhite, founder Lionel Karl’s son. It is hand carved using top quality tone woods, exhibiting wonderful flaming on the ribs and back and the workmanship is absolute top-notch. A local luthier commented that the quality of purfling and corner work is ‘competition level’. The instrument has a signed label and is branded under the neck.

It is in good condition, although there is a minor repaired crack on the lower rib. The cello has been professionally set up with a fine bridge, Akusticus tailpiece, premium Versum Solo (A&D) and Spirocore Tungsten (G&C) strings and a carbon fiber endpin. It is noticeably light in weight, but with a glorious warm & projecting sound.

This is truly a lovely sounding instrument and a rare opportunity to own a mature handmade studio English cello at a reasonable price. Length of back: 756mm.