C F Gand made this cello in Paris in 1831, and it is an unusually original and well-preserved instrument by the head of the Gand family. The influence of Nicolas Lupot, for whom Charles-Francois previously worked, can be seen in the rich red varnish that covers the fine maple and spruce woods. The low arching and Stradivarian model give rise to its powerful, soloistic tone. Certificate of authenticity by Jean-Jacques Rampal, Paris