A French violin by J.B. Collin-Mèzin workshops, labelled Ch.J.B. Collin-Mèzin/Luthier Grand Prix-Exposition Universelle 1900 Paris 1908; the two-piece back of strong narrow curl, the ribs and scroll similar, the top of fine to medium grain, the varnish of an orange gold colour, the length of back 146in (359mm)