Update
Cuypers cello:
"The dent repair
is complete"
Since November 2019, our Cuypers cello (from ca. 1770) has been with violin maker Hubert de Launay for an intensive restoration. If you attended our Presentation Concerts at the time, you’re already familiar with this. Perhaps you even made a donation toward this restoration? In any case, it’s high time to let you know how the cello is doing.
Koester de Cuypers
The 250-year-old cello has a history of many well-intentioned repairs. Over time, the thin top has begun to sag: it could no longer properly withstand the pressure of the strings. In addition, cracks and damage to the wood and varnish have been repaired in the past using various techniques, but these need to be re-examined. To fund this costly restoration, which will take several months, the Musical Instrument Fund launched the “Cherish the Cuypers” campaign.
Removing dents from the top panel
A lot of progress has been made in the meantime. Hubert: “The dent removal on the top is nearly complete. That means the top has returned to its original shape. Over the next month, I’ll be installing a large reinforcement in the soundboard’s breast area to prevent sagging in the future. The soundboard’s center is the most important part of the instrument; that’s where everything comes together: the bridge, the soundpost, the bass bar, the sound holes, and so on. This is actually the center of the sound."
Retouching
Hubert has also almost completely removed all the old touch-ups (re-varnishing). These were often too red or even gray-green. Hubert reapplied a fresh coat of varnish in the correct color. After all the touch-ups, the top is once again in optimal condition. Now the cello can be reassembled after lying in pieces for months. We’ll keep you posted!