3/4 Violin by Thibouville-Lamy "Breton Breveté De S.A.R.M."

A charming and characterful three-quarter-size French violin bearing the celebrated "Breton Breveté De S.A.R.M." brand — a mark that links this instrument to one of the most storied names in Mirecourt violin making.

Provenance & Background
The name Breton refers to Joseph-François Breton (c. 1750–1830), a Mirecourt master luthier who built such a reputation for careful, refined work that he was appointed violin maker to the Duchesse d'Angoulême — eldest daughter of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. The abbreviation S.A.R.M. stands for "Son Altesse Royale Madame," referencing this royal appointment, and "Breveté" denotes the patented status of the brand.

After Breton's death in 1830, his name and fire-branded stamp were continued by the great Mirecourt manufacturing houses, most notably Jérôme Thibouville-Lamy (J.T.L.) and Laberte, who produced good-quality trade instruments to the Breton pattern well into the early 20th century (National Music Museum). Instruments of this type were typically made between roughly 1890 and 1920, and the three-quarter size makes this example especially appealing for the advancing younger player seeking a step-up instrument with genuine tone and heritage.

Tonal Character
These Mirecourt Breton-pattern violins are valued for their sweet, warm and responsive voice — qualities that make them a particular favourite among teachers for pupils moving beyond a beginner's instrument. The 3/4 body produces a focussed, mellow tone with enough projection for early grade examinations, ensemble playing and chamber music.

Setup

Professionally set up in our London workshop — new bridge, soundpost, and quality strings

Condition
Presented in good, fully playable condition and freshly set up in our workshop. As an antique instrument of c. 100+ years, it carries the gentle, honest patina one would expect, with no structural issues to impair performance or stability. 

Why Choose This Violin
Genuine French Mirecourt pedigree rather than a modern mass-produced student instrument

Warm, encouraging tone ideally suited to progressing players

About Us
Bridgewood & Neitzert Ltd are specialist violin makers and dealers based in London. Every instrument we offer is examined, set up and regulated in our own workshop to ensure it performs at its best. We are happy to discuss this violin, arrange a viewing, or advise on bows, cases and accessories to complement it.

Enquire today — or visit us in London to try this lovely Breton three-quarter violin in person.

The back in a single piece of maple of medium-fine curl descending across the back from the bass down towards the treble flank. The ribs of mixed curl. The pegbox and scroll of plain maple. The varnish of a rich, luminous warm amber-brown color on a light yellow-brown ground.

Labelled

Breton Breveté De S.A.R.M.

Length of back 331 mm

Width upper bout 157 mm

Width middle bout 109 mm

Width lower bout 196 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.