Markneukirchen 3/4 Cello 1880
Markneukirchen 3/4 Cello 1880
This 3/4-size cello from Markneukirchen, made around 1880, is an absolute gem. It’s rare enough to find a fractional cello of this age, but to find one in such remarkable condition — and with such character — is something special. You can see the care and love that went into its making, especially in the scroll, which is beautifully carved with a quiet elegance that speaks of a luthier who truly cared.
When I first picked it up to play after the new setup, I had that odd feeling you get when looking at the tiny chairs you used to sit on at primary school — part nostalgia, part disbelief that you ever fit. With my hands being so much larger now, I honestly wasn’t sure I’d manage. But the moment I began playing, all doubts vanished. This little cello has an incredible voice: rich, clear, and colourful, with a presence that rivals many full-size instruments. It speaks so easily and beautifully — it’s a thing of real class, with a huge heart ready to sing.
I can see it inspiring any young player, but it’s especially suited to a highly gifted, up-and-coming talent. I genuinely love this cello — it’s a rare and soulful instrument that deserves to be played and cherished.
This little cello has an incredible voice: rich, clear, and colourful, with a presence that rivals many full-size instruments. It speaks so easily and beautifully — it’s a thing of real class, with a huge heart ready to sing.
Condition
This cello is in outstanding condition for its age, and remarkably, it remains almost entirely original. The varnish is untouched — rich, warm, and beautifully aged — and unlike many instruments of this period, it has not been over-polished or French polished. It has the honest wear of a well-loved instrument, with the kind of surface character that tells a story rather than tries to hide it.
There is only one area of restoration: a small section on the upper bout on the fingering side, which has been professionally and discreetly repaired to a very high standard. Structurally, the cello is completely sound and needs no further work. Every edge, seam, and detail speaks of careful ownership and respect over the years.
This is not the kind of cello that hides its age — but like wrinkles on a loving face, every mark and patina has meaning. It’s a beautiful, authentic example of 19th-century craftsmanship that has lived a musical life and is ready to continue that journey.
The setup
This cello has received a full professional-grade setup to ensure it plays effortlessly and supports healthy technique from the very beginning. A top-quality Despiau “Three Tree” bridge has been expertly carved and fitted, paired with a new soundpost that has been carefully positioned, played in, and readjusted for optimal tonal response and balance.
A fresh set of Helicore strings has been added, offering a warm, focused sound with excellent clarity and ease of response — perfect for developing players. The string height has been precisely adjusted to make this cello comfortable to play, particularly for smaller hands, which is essential for encouraging relaxed posture and stress-free technique from an early age.
This is a cello teacher’s dream for one of their star pupils — beautifully made, easy to play, and expertly set up to bring out a young musician’s full potential. It’s the kind of instrument that allows both teacher and student to grow, communicate, and be inspired together.
The Sound
This little cello honestly surprised me. You don’t expect a 3/4 to hold its own the way this one does — but it really does. The sound has warmth and depth, with a rich lower register that growls just enough, and a top end that sings without ever getting brittle. There’s a lovely colour to the tone — not flat or boxy like some smaller cellos — and it speaks quickly and clearly under the bow.
It doesn’t need to be pushed to sound good, which is exactly what you want for a developing player. You can draw out a lot of expression without fighting it. It plays kindly, but it has character — which is a rare thing in cellos this size.
I’ve found myself smiling while playing it. It’s got soul. The kind of voice that makes a young player feel like a musician, not just a student.