German 15 & 3/4″ 1780 Gabriel D. Buchstetter (Buchstadter) Viola

This fine German viola for sale is 15 and 3/4 inches in length.  It is attributed to Gabriel David Buchstetter (Buchstadter), in Rattisbonam, GERMANY; the year is difficult to make out, but it was made before 1780.  As with Buchstetter’s better instruments, this viola was made quite well.  It has a good neck graft.  The viola is a Stainer copy.  It does have a soundpost crack on the back that has been excellently patched, repaired, and is very secure; there are also some insignificant repaired top cracks.  Because of the soundpost crack, this 15 & 3/4″ Buchstetter Viola is a very good deal for a player who wants a lovely, smaller viola at a reasonable price.  The tone of this viola is very warm, sweet and beautiful; it is not particularly big or bold.