Joseph Hel violin #24, 1874, Lille | Metzler Violins

warm, resonant, sweet

About the Instrument

This violin has a soulful warmth that brings out a sweetness in the upper registers. The varnish varies from red to gold, bringing out the flames on its single piece back that point to the upper left bout. The scroll has blackened chamfers, with flames that are particularly beautiful. The luthier inscribed his name on the violin’s button, which reads “J. Hel.” This instrument is in excellent condition.

Interior label reads: “Fait par HEL No. 24 Luthier de l’Academie de Musique Rue Esquermoise 50, Lille 1874”
Length: 360 mm
Upper Bouts: 170 mm
Middle: 110 mm
Lower Bouts: 208 mm

About the Maker

Pierre Joseph Hel (1842-1902) was born in Vosges, France and apprenticed in Mirecourt with Salzard before working for S. Vuillaume in Paris and Nicolas Darche in Aix-La-Chapelle. In 1865, Hel opened his own shop in Lille, where he produced over 750 instruments until his death. Hel often used classical Cremonese patterns, though Maggini was also an inspiration. His craftsmanship and materials were excellent, with good sound quality and a fine brownish-red varnish. His son, Pierre Jean Henri, followed him into the trade.