Joseph Hel (b. 1842 d. 1902) is one of the most prominent French violin makers in the latter half of the 19th century. Hel started his education in Mirecourt at the age of 14 with Francois Salzard who Hel studied with for 7 years. After which he continued his education working in the workshops of Sebastien Vuillaume and Nicolas Darche. Hel opened his own workshop in Lille in 1865, and quickly established himself. In 1880 Hel attracted the attention of David Laurie who at the time was an infamous instrument collector. Laurie entrusted all his restoration work to Hel. During Hels lifetime he was most inspired by the major Cremonese violin makers and modeled his instruments in a similar fashion. This instrument in particular is masterfully modeled after a modern Stradivari violin. The instrument produces an impressive amount of power, without sacrificing any nuance. It has a wonderful richness and depth in the lower register and a soaring clarity in the upper register. The varnish  on its striking 2-piece back is classy with a handsome red-brown color over an amber base. This instrument would be perfect in the hands of a professional player.  Certified by J&A Beare