Master of Violins and How to Make Them
Portland, OR: T. G. Robison, 1930. First Edition. Signed. Numbered. Bound in black cloth.12mo [7 x 5 inches]
63pp.
[English] Condition: Near Fine. Signed and Numbered First Edition of a Rare American Violin-Making Manual, 1930
A. H. Merrill
Master Violins and How to Make Them
Publisher: Portland, Oregon: T. G. Robison, 1930
12mo [7 x 5 inches]
63pp.
[English] Condition: Near Fine
First edition of A. H. Merrill’s scarce self-published guide to violin making, issued in a small numbered series and signed by the author. Each copy was intended for the “exclusive use” of the original owner. This one is number 16, signed and dated March 2, 1932, and gifted to Andrew Harper, a small Los Angeles–area luthier. Several instruments bearing the name “Andrew Harper, Violin Maker” have surfaced, confirming that he was active in the trade around the same period.
Bound in black silk-covered boards with marbled endpapers, matching other known copies of the edition. The gilt title on the front cover has been recolored in yellow by a previous owner, with no title to the spine, as issued. Illustrated throughout with photographic figures and diagrams.
It is in Near Fine condition with light surface wear to the boards. The interior pages remain very clean, with only a small stain on the first photographic plate and a tiny tear just below it. The author’s signature and date are bold and clear. Near Fine. Item #31
Price: $1,100.00