This viola features the original handwritten label "Konrad Kohlert – Geigenbaumeister – fecit Bavariae – Forchheim-Poxdorf anno 2016" and the personal inscription "ex Passione natus," identifying it as a handcrafted German viola made in Bavaria in 2016. Built by master luthier Konrad Kohlert, who trained under Ernst Heinrich Roth and at the Mittenwald Violin Making School, the instrument reflects the highest standards of contemporary German violin making. Combining exceptional craftsmanship, a rich, balanced tone, and outstanding responsiveness, this viola is a superb choice for professional musicians and serious collectors.

Bearing the label "William Elmore, San Mateo, California 1999," this 16-inch viola was handcrafted by American luthier William Elmore, a graduate of the Violin Making School of America who spent over two decades with Roland Feller Violin Makers in San Francisco before establishing his own workshop. Made in San Mateo, California, in 1999, this viola is appreciated for its refined craftsmanship, warm and resonant tone, balanced construction, responsive playability, and dependable performance, making it an excellent example of contemporary American viola making.

This 15.25" viola was produced by Italian luthier Giovanni Battista Gaibisso in 1950. Giovanni Battista Gaibisso is an Italian Violin, viola, cello, and occasional guitar maker who emigrated to South America and returned to Europe to work for violin-maker François Bovis in France. He established a workshop of his own in 1923 in Alassio and participated in numerous competitions in Italy throughout the twentieth century.

This viola is Kohlert's unique model, which draws inspiration from the Brescian School. The Brescian School is renowned for producing high-quality violas in the 16th and 17th centuries, crafted by famous makers such as Maggini and Gaspar Da Salo. The size of this particular viola measures 16.3 inches (41.4 cm).

We have here a 15" Paul Knorr Viola (SP Crack Repair) made in Markneukirchen in 1922. Paul Knorr a German luthier, a pupil of Max Dolling who established his workshop in Markneukirchen in 1921.

Matteo Marsili (b. 1991, Viadana) is a Cremona-trained Italian luthier based in Casalmaggiore, known for crafting violins, violas, and cellos inspired by classical masters and for his contributions to both modern violin making and historical research.

• Studied under Massimo Negroni at Cremona’s International School of Violin Making

• Opened first workshop in Casalmaggiore in 2017 and founded “Bottega di Liuteria” in 2023

• Creates instruments using personal models and custom amber-colored varnish

• Regular exhibitor at major music festivals

• Researches and publishes on lesser-known Italian luthiers, including a book on Gabriele Pareschi

• Registered with the Chamber of Commerce as a violin maker since 2023

We have here a 15 inch Old French Viola- Repaired by Gand. Charles Eugène Gand was a French Luthier who started with his father Charles François Gand as an apprentice who is the successor of Lupot.

Jan Chamot (1939) 15 3/4 Inch Viola features:

• Made in Krakov Poland in 1934

• Expertly restored and set up by the luthiers in Animato's workshop

• Despiau three-star bridge and Evah Pirazzi strings fitted