19th-Century Collin-Mézin Violin Achieves £6,500 in Auction...
5th November 2025
A highlight of our recent Fine Art Sale was a beautifully preserved 19th-century French violin by Charles Jean Baptiste Collin-Mézin (1841–1923), which inspired spirited bidding to reach an impressive hammer price of £6,500, far surpassing its pre-sale estimate of £1,500.
This elegant instrument represents the refinement and quality for which Collin-Mézin’s workshop became renowned. The violin bears a printed interior label reading: “Ch. J. B. Collin-Mézin Fils, Luthier à Paris, Rue du Faubourg Poissonnière No. 10” and is dated 1881, placing it squarely within the maker’s most sought-after period.
Inside, a pencil signature was also discovered, adding a rare and highly personal touch. Such signatures are characteristic of Collin-Mézin's earlier work and are considered a mark of authenticity, indicating the maker's own inspection or direct involvement in the instrument's creation. The violin was offered in its original fitted wooden case, which added further appeal to collectors.
Charles Jean Baptiste Collin-Mézin stands among the foremost French luthiers of the late 19th century & was trained by his father.
He exhibited internationally, and earned medals at the Paris Expositions of 1878, 1889, and 1900, and his instruments quickly gained favour among professional musicians across Europe. Early examples from his Paris period, like this 1881 violin, are especially prized for their rich, vibrant tone and fine workmanship.
Estimated conservatively at £1,500, the violin attracted attention from musicians, collectors, and dealers both in the saleroom and online. Following a lively round of bidding, it achieved a final hammer price of £6,500, more than four times its initial estimate. This outstanding result highlights the continuing demand for authentic 19th-century French instruments and underscores the strength of todays market for fine stringed instruments with strong provenance.
We are delighted to have presented such a fine example in our Fine Art Sale and look forward to offering further exceptional items in our upcoming auctions. If you wish to partake in an upcoming auction, get in touch with one of our friendly team who are happy to help with your enquiries.
