Joseph Kun Estate — Strongly Figured Maple Violin Back Plate (Two-Piece, Outlined Blank)
We are pleased to offer a beautifully figured maple violin back plate sourced from the Estate of Joseph Kun (Ottawa, Ontario) — one of Canada’s most respected and influential 20th-century violin makers.
This plate represents authentic workshop tonewood originating from the Joseph Kun estate.
Description
Instrument: Violin (4/4)
Component: Back plate
Construction: Two-piece, bookmatched
Wood: Highly figured maple (European tonewood grade)
Figure: Strong, even horizontal flame across both halves
Cut: Quartered
Arching: Not yet carved
Edgework: Cut to outline; edges left full for maker finishing
Stage: Outlined blank; exterior arching and interior graduation remain to be completed
Condition: Excellent structural condition; natural mineral streaking present
This back plate displays pronounced, consistent flame with attractive symmetry along the center joint. The figure shows good depth and movement, particularly across the lower bouts.
Natural mineral streaking and minor character markings are present, typical of genuine tonewood and not structural defects. These features may remain subtly visible under transparent varnish and contribute individuality to the finished instrument.
The plate remains in a thick, uncarved state, allowing the maker full control over arching, graduation, and tonal refinement.
Model / Style
Model: Classical Cremonese-inspired outline (exact template undocumented; no guarantee).
The outline proportions reflect traditional Italian violin geometry consistent with classical Cremonese design. However, no documentation accompanies the plate confirming a specific Stradivari, Guarneri, or Amati template. While stylistically traditional, precise model attribution cannot be guaranteed.
Provenance
This back plate originates from the Estate of Joseph Kun, Ottawa, Ontario. The material was purchased at the Joseph Kun estate auction by Toronto luthier Filip Tomov and subsequently acquired by us directly from his workshop.
Joseph Kun was internationally respected for his craftsmanship and careful selection of tonewood. Workshop material from his estate remains desirable among contemporary violin makers and restoration workshops.
Availability
Material from the Joseph Kun workshop estate is finite. Once sold, comparable pieces from this estate will not be replenished here.
This represents a one-time acquisition opportunity for makers wishing to work with authenticated workshop material connected to a historically significant Canadian luthier.
Ideal For
Professional violin makers
Advanced luthiers
Restoration workshops
Custom violin builds
Collectors of historical workshop material
JK-003