Born in Menton in 1876. He was first a cabinetmaker. At the age of 17, he came into contact with the musician and violin maker Hüfner and developed a taste for the craft of lutherie. In 1902, he established himself professionally in Monaco, where six years later he became the official violin maker to the Casino orchestra. In 1910, he exhibited a quartet in Brussels and was awarded a first gold medal. Fine violin making after the Stradivari model, with artistically drawn purfling. Messrs. Huberto Benedetti and Lagarde greatly praised the tonal qualities of his instruments.
Ink inscription: Made by François Vial / Violin maker in Monaco / year 19… / F. Vial.
(source: violindocs)
