. . .The one typical of Nicolas's later days, although free and elegant, yet had a somewhat heavier touch about it, possibly the master was gradually losing his muscular power, more necessary to exert in this matter of detail than any other. Stradivari began his own type by bringing the first turn from the axis or "eye" a little higher up than that of his master; the axis itself is a trifle larger and flatter, the edges of the turns are squared off with a machine-like exactness that does not interfere with the ease and flow of line. The peg box is strong and ample, after a few years it became massive, more so occasionally than is to be met with at any other time, the grooves down the back are not so deep, the termination or shell likewise and a little wider.

That Nicolas Amati would by any possibility neglect to duly initiate his favourite pupil in the mysteries and secrecies whereby his work should receive its final crowning adornment, its envelopment in the thin. . . Read More