Born in 1710, Carlo Ferdinando Landolfi started making instruments in the mid-18th century after the arrival of G.B. Guadagnini in Milan. This important influence is visible in Landolfi’s workmanship, and differentiates his style from earlier representatives of the Milanese school, such as the Grancino and Testore families. This stunning viola dates from the midpoint of Landolfi’s career and shows the confidence and maturity that make his instruments highly recognisable. It is a strong sounding viola with clear tonal focus, a warm bass register and a silvery top end.