Gustave Adolphe Bernardel, son and pupil of Auguste-Sébastien, joined his father, Bernardel Pére, around 1849 and became a partner in the family workshop in 1860. He took over the business with his brother and Charles Eugène Gand in 1866, forming Gand et Bernardel. After Gand’s departure in 1892, Gustave continued as sole owner until his retirement in 1901, at which point he sold the business to Caressa & Francais. The establishment was renowned in Parisian violin making, known for its expertise and restorations, with a focus on maintaining the quality of instruments and bows. Gustave received official appointments as maker to the Conservatoire, opera orchestras, and the Ministry of Fine Arts, and was honored as Chevalier of the Legion of Honour in 1900. Instruments were crafted using oil-based varnishes, ensuring a very fine quality.
This violin was made under the direction of Gustav Bernardel around 1895. The violin comes with a Certificate of Authenticity from Vatelot-Rampal in Paris.
