American 4/4 1912 Claude Lorraine Heskett Violin

The unusual full-size violin was handmade by American Claude Lorraine Heskett in 1912.  The son of Harrison Harvey Heskett, Claude apprenticed with and took over his father’s shop upon his father’s death in 1898.  Harrison’s shop was noted for developing a special system for pegs.  Claude ran his shop first in Omaha and then moved to Los Angeles.  It is not clear in which of these cities this violin was made.  This Heskett Violin has a nice back with an attractive flame and a nice, soft oil varnish.  The sound is bold and sweet and projects well.  This violin has one repaired topcrack at the f-hole and does have some varnish blemishes in keeping with its age and soft varnish.