Sought after Bohemian - London

Sought after Bohemian

This is a beautiful Bohemian workshop cello from the Luby/ Schönbach region, probably circa 1920–1935 (see photo of label). Comes with a hard case.

These early 20th-century Bohemia/Czech cellos are increasingly appreciated and sought after.

Label: Made in Czechoslovakia (authentic to period export instruments).

Highlights:

• Circa probably 1920–1935 Luby/Schönbach workshop cello

• One-piece figured maple back

• Hand-inlaid purfling

• Warm, rich tonal potential typical of pre-war Bohemian instruments

• Excellent candidate for restoration and professional setup

• Strong value once restored

Regarding the label “Made in a Czechoslovakia” the small round emblem with an angel/cherub is a known trademark used by Luby/Schönbach workshops, which later became part of the state-run Cremona Luby cooperative, producing export violins, violas, and cellos.

This exact wording is important as this label was primarily from 1918 - 1938.

Hand-finished but not hand-carved by a single maker.

These cellos are known for their warm earthy tone, sturdy build, good projection and excellent long-term durability. When properly set up, they make very good instruments and many professionals gig on restored Czech cellos of this type.

These were not factory machines but rather hand finished workshop instruments built by teams of trained makers working under a state collective.

This wonderful piece of Czech musical history features a one-piece maple back of medium flame, spruce top of straight grain, and hand-inlaid purfling.

Typical Bohemian construction with full corner blocks and an independent bass bar. It would be expected to have a warm, dark tonal character when properly set up.

Spirit varnish of reddish-brown color typical of pre-WWII Schönbach production.

Constructed with full corner blocks and linings set into blocks.

Overall, a representative example of probably interwar Czech craftsmanship with good tonal potential when fully restored.

Fully restored this beautiful cello maybe valued at over £6000.

In summary it has:

• Real blocks and linings
• A one-piece maple back
• Genuine pre-war craftsmanship
• Significant musical potential

Set up by a luthier to suit personal preferences it will:

• Sound warm and resonant
• Be excellent for orchestral, chamber, or solo practice
• Hold or increase its value over time

If you are interested in seeing the cello please just let me know. This cello has been recently played (December 2025) and looked over by a former Northern Sinfonía lead cellist. A luthier has also checked over the instrument.

Depending on the circumstances I may be happy for you to visit a luthier with the cello to understand any cosmetic or personal adjustments to suit you. I am at home most days especially between 10:30am and 4pm.

I live quite close to The Tyne Bridge in NE8 postcode.

Posted on : 2 months ago, #5860, 2 views

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