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.

Next is 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 love and care.

The final surprise might be the most significant. The purfling on the front on the back don’t match, they are from a different hand. The wood on the back and ribs is much earlier and indeed looks distinctively Italian. Internally, it is very well made and indicative of a fine craftsman from a different era. We are currently investigating this exciting discovery.

The instrument has had condition issues with multiple cracks, all of which have been repaired and the cello is now in good playing condition with premium Larson strings fitted.

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