A French Baroque Violin by Bernard Anciaume, Mirecourt c.1780

A fine French Baroque violin by Bernard Anciaume of Mirecourt, dating from around 1780. Anciaume was born in 1747 and worked in Mirecourt, where he applied to become a master violin maker in 1779. He is also recorded as having worked at the rue Derrière le Palais in Liège. His son, Antoine Anciaume, known as le Jeune, subsequently continued the family tradition.
 

Anciaume’s instruments are associated with the developing Mirecourt tradition of the late eighteenth century, combining the practical character of French provincial workmanship with a recognisable individual identity. His violins are known to bear the brand “Bernard Anciaume”, and examples are typically associated with painted purfling and yellow or warm-toned varnish.
 

This violin retains its original neck, bass bar and lower saddle, providing an unusually complete representation of its historical construction and original Baroque design. 

The maker’s brand, “Bernard Anciaume”, is impressed lengthways on the upper back below the button. This distinctive feature is an important part of the instrument’s identity and is consistent with documented examples of Anciaume’s work.
 

The violin has a characterful, articulate sound with the directness and clarity particularly valued in Baroque repertoire. Its response is immediate and well defined, allowing detailed articulation and expressive bow control, while the lower strings provide a pleasing warmth and substance. The upper register is focused and singing, with a clear, penetrating quality that enables melodic lines to project without losing refinement.

There is an attractive balance between intimacy and carrying power: the instrument can produce a nuanced, speech-like response in chamber music while retaining sufficient presence for ensemble playing. Its tonal personality should appeal especially to a player seeking an individual French Baroque voice rather than the more homogenised sound of a modern workshop instrument.

With its original neck, bass bar and lower saddle, this violin offers an uncommon opportunity to acquire a French instrument retaining significant elements of its eighteenth-century construction. 

The back in two matching pieces of maple of faint medium curl descending across the back from the center joint. Branded lengthways beneath the button either side of the center joint ‘BERNARD ANCIAUME’.  The ribs, original neck, pegbox and scroll of plain maple. The front in two pieces od spruce of medium grain. The varnish of a warm, golden-orange-brown color on a light yellow-brown ground.

Length of back 163 mm

Width upper bout 167 mm

Width middle bout 114 mm

Width lower bout 202 mm

Delivery

We deliver to customers across the UK and worldwide. Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive an email confirmation with your shipping details and tracking number.

We work with trusted courier partners such as UPS and Parcelforce to ensure the safe and prompt delivery of your purchase.

Please note that if you cancel your order for any reason other than those set out in our Returns and Refund Policy (for example, if you change your mind prior to dispatch or shortly after), we reserve the right to deduct any associated payment processing fees—such as PayPal or card transaction charges—from the amount refunded.

Returns and Exchanges

We understand that sometimes a product may not meet your expectations. You may return your item within 30 days of delivery for a full refund, provided it is in its original packaging and in resaleable condition. The cost of return shipping is the responsibility of the customer unless the product is faulty or incorrectly supplied.

Please include your full contact details and either the original invoice or a note clearly stating your name, address, order number, and whether you’d like an exchange or refund.

Returns should be sent to:

Standard Returns Policy

We are happy to exchange or refund any item that is faulty, damaged, or unsuitable for your needs. To qualify, items must be returned within 14 days of receipt, in perfect condition, and in their original sealed packaging with all labels and seals intact.

Your statutory rights are not affected. Please refer to our full Refund Policy below for additional information.

How to Return an Item (UK Customers)

• Pack the item securely in its original packaging (or an alternative sturdy box if necessary).
• Remove any old delivery labels.
• Enclose your invoice or a note including your name, address, contact details, and order number.
• Use a tracked postal or courier service of your choice when sending your return.
• Customers are responsible for the cost of return postage, which will not be reimbursed unless the item is found to be faulty or sent in error.

Once we receive your return, we will process it within 14 days. Refunds will be made to your original payment method, minus any applicable postage costs or transaction fees.

UK Exchanges

If you wish to exchange an item, we will cover the postage for the first replacement to UK addresses. Please include a note with your parcel clearly stating the item you wish to receive in exchange.

International Returns

Customers returning items from outside the UK are required to use a duty-paid service. Returns sent via duty unpaid or held by customs cannot be accepted.

Please securely repack your item (preferably in its original packaging) and remove all old shipping labels. We do not cover international return shipping costs. You must use a tracked, insured service suitable for your region.

Standard Returns Address

Please include your contact details, invoice, or a note indicating whether you would like a refund or exchange. You are responsible for paying return postage costs, and we recommend adequate postal insurance in case your parcel is lost or damaged in transit.

For any return queries, please email enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london.

Refunds

Refunds are issued to the original payment method used for purchase. While we aim to process all refunds within 24 hours of receiving the return, please allow up to 10 working days for the funds to appear in your account, depending on your payment provider.

In cases where an item is faulty, we may reimburse reasonable return postage costs upon confirmation. Please contact us at enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london for assistance.

Refunds will only be processed once the returned goods have been received and inspected. Proof of postage must be retained as evidence of return.

Refund Policy Summary

• Returns are accepted within 14 days of receipt.
• Items must be unused, in their original packaging, with all tags attached.
• Returns without prior approval may not be accepted.
• Certain items are non-returnable, including perishable goods, custom-made items, personal goods, sale items, and gift cards.
• Damaged or defective items must be reported immediately upon receipt.
• Refunds, once approved, are issued to the original payment method. Original shipping charges are non-refundable, and deductions may apply for payment processing fees (e.g., PayPal).

For return requests or questions, please contact: enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london.