Sarah Padday - Specialist in the sale, care, and restoration of antique instruments
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New Making
Antique Models
Instruments built on the patterns of the great makers, shaped by the needs of the player who will play them.
Providing specialist services for private clients, collectors, estates, and institutions.
Repair, restoration, and conservation across the full spectrum — from routine maintenance to complex and sensitive work.
Valuations for insurance, probate, and sale, with full documentation prepared as required.
Authentication and certification services across a broad range of fine string instruments. Where specialist knowledge is required beyond in-house expertise, Sarah draws on an established network. Condition reports and certificates of authenticity issued as required.
Fine instruments accepted for acquisition and commission sale.
Based in Somerset and available in London by appointment.
[1]
London 1770
[2]
William Forster
[2]
Available to Trial
[3]
Forster. W. 1770
William Forster II
[1] Made in the 1770s by the royal warrented London maker
A defining example of the English making tradition, and among the finest of its period.
[2] Dark, warm, and richly resonant
The unhurried voice of an instrument that knows itself.
[3] A Voice For Life
Rich, dark, and deeply resonant — a capable instrument for a lifetime of music
"When we build, let us think that we build forever. Let it not be for present delight nor for our use alone. Let it be such work as our descendants will look upon with praise and thanksgiving in their hearts." John Ruskin