ER Schmidt ‘Amati’ Workshop Cello, Markneukirchen c. 1910 (GE039) SOLD

ER Schmidt ‘Amati’ Workshop cello, Markneukirchen c. 1910 (GE039) SOLD

This is a lovely old German cello from a very well respected maker’s workshop.

Ernst Rheinhold Schmidt was born in Markneukirchen, Germany in1857. He apprenticed to Julius Kretzschman, and also worked for Bausch and Hammig at Leipzig and Riechers at Berlin. He returned to Markneukirchen in 1880 to establish his own workshop assisted by his sons and a staff of workmen. Schmidt won gold medals at Vienna and Leipzig in 1892 and 1913 respectively.

Two of his sons later moved to Cleveland, Ohio, acting as an agent for their father’s workshop. This instrument was likely imported into the US by them in the early 1900’s.

It is a labeled as copy of an Amati cello, but looks to be more likely modeled on a Stradivari. This was not an uncommon practice at the time. It is finished with a very attractive reddish brown oil varnish.

The sound is clear, powerful, resonate and appealing. It is an easy to play instrument and has been fitted with a new bridge, sound post, tailpiece and a Larsen Aurora string set.

This cello has had some restoration; there are some repairs to the front and button, all stable and there is surface wear consistent with age.

The length of back is 755mm. High resolution photos available on request.