A S P Bernardel cello

This A S P Bernardel cello is offered for sale with a fascinating collection of historic documents. The original bill of sale is dated 6 June 1842 and is signed by Bernardel himself. The cello was supplied with case and bow; the price 530 French Francs, and delivery to its first owner was slightly delayed owing to being borrowed by the  renowned 19th century cellist Dancla, who apparently preferred it to his own cello! It was subsequently played by prize-winning cellist Gaston Marchesini.  As well as having an unusually detailed record of ownership, this cello has remained in a very fine state of preservation.