Musical Instruments
VIOLA
Musical Training as a Basis for Appraisal Expertise
A lifelong music background supports Richelle's deep understanding of instruments as both art and functional objects.
Richelle played and studied music throughout her childhood and was able to use her base knowledge of musical instruments to build a foundation in understanding how they operate as art objects and within a collector and player market.
Viola d'Amore
Giovanni Grancino (Italian, Milan 1637–1709 Milan)
1701, Italian
Spruce, maple, ebony, bone, iron
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
Purchase, Amati Gifts, 2008
Range of Instrument Handling
Experience with high-end collectible instruments and market analysis
One of Richelle’s earlier positions in the art market was with Tarisio in New York City, a leading auction house for stringed instruments and their bows.
While at Tarisio, she handled and studied musical instruments ranging from $5,000 to $10 million and upwards — by maker names including Stradivari, Amati, and Guarneri.
While working as the receptionist, she was able to grow into assisting with the back-end management of their database and the development of Market Reports that analyzed the auction house market for musical instruments.
Expanded Auction and Appraisal Roles
Over a decade of experience across major instrument categories
After Tarisio Richelle worked with two other auction houses and her background set her up to be the in-house musical instrument specialist.
During her nearly 10 years she handled, cataloged, and appraised pianos — Steinway, Bösendorfer, Yamaha, and others — as well as violins, violas, cellos and their bows ranging from student level to professional.
Grand Piano
Carl Bechstein (Gotha 1826–1900 Berlin)
ca. 1893, German
Wood, metal, various materials
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
Gift of Schonberger Family Foundation, 1993
Appraisal Services and Client Support
Assistance with appraisals for insurance, estate, donation, and liquidation
Richelle is glad to assist with the appraisal of musical instruments for all purposes including insurance, estate, or donation.
She is passionate about the multi-faceted and ever-growing market for musical instruments and can help clients with finding the most appropriate venue for sale.
She is also excited about the opportunity to work with other appraisers or auction houses for identification and cataloging.
Oboe
Theodore Berteling (Westphalia, 1821/22–1890 New York)
1860–90
Various materials
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
Funds from various donors, 1976
Process
DISCUSSION
We start with a discussion about your goals and what services might align best with your needs.
ARGEEMENT
After reviewing your needs, Richelle will present a quote and formalize the project with a contract.
INSPECTION
An inspection will be scheduled to review the property or collection and formally begin the appraisal or advisory process.
CONCLUSION
Richelle will conclude the assignment and make sure all questions are answered, all items have been discussed, and any final report is delivered.