An English Cello Attributed to the Furber Family, London, circa 1785

Possibly the work of Matthew Furber senior.

An attractive English cello with a distinctive character and a substantial professional playing history, used by cellist Robin Michael since 2011.

Importantly, the cello retains its original neck and bass bar, adding significant historical interest and helping to preserve its authentic structural character. This is a notable feature for an instrument of this period, particularly one that has remained so well suited to modern professional use.

The cello has been used professionally for both Baroque and Classical-period performance by the renowned cellist Robin Michael, Solo Cellist of Orchestre Les Siècles in Paris and Les Musiciens du Prince in Monaco, and Principal Cello of the Monteverdi Choir and Orchestras. Robin has also appeared extensively as guest principal cellist with the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, the Academy of Ancient Music, Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin and Cappella Gabetta.

Its distinguished recording history includes Robin Michael’s solo performance of Vivaldi’s Cello Concerto in A minor, RV 417, with the Munich Baroque Soloists; Beethoven’s Cello Sonata No. 1, Op. 5, with Daniel Tong; and continuo work in Scarlatti’s Sonata in D minor, alongside Steven Isserlis and Richard Egarr.

The Furber family formed part of London’s instrument-making community across several generations, producing instruments both under their own names and for other businesses. Their shared working traditions can make attribution to an individual family member challenging.

Purchased privately from David Rattray, this cello is understood from the owner to have been identified by him as Furber family work, possibly by Matthew Furber. The proposed date of circa 1785 would place it within the lifetime of Matthew Furber senior.

Its sustained use by Robin Michael adds a meaningful chapter to its history as a working musician’s instrument. For a player seeking an old English cello with visual individuality and an established professional background, it offers an intriguing opportunity.

Tonally, the instrument offers a direct, immediate and finely focused sound, with a warm, richly coloured lower register and a clear, singing upper voice. It speaks with exceptional ease under the bow, responding readily to the light articulation, quick changes of colour and nuanced phrasing required in historically informed performance. At the same time, it has sufficient depth and carrying power for chamber music, orchestral principal work and modern concert use.

A rare opportunity to acquire a cello with exceptional professional provenance, highly desirable original features, proven versatility across Baroque and Classical repertoire, and a sound that is both refined and genuinely inspiring to play.

The back in two matching pieces of maple of light medium curl descending across the back from the center joint. The ribs, pegbox and scroll of similar curl. The front in two matching pieces of spruce of medium grain in the center broadening towards the flanks. The varnish of warm amber-orange-brown color on a light brown ground.

Length of back 756 mm

Width upper bout 355 mm Width middle bout 256 mm

Width lower bout 442 mm

Delivery

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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.