John Juzek Master Art 1965

The Maker

John Juzek was a Czech dealer and exporter who ran one of the most respected instrument networks in early 20th-century string making. His Master Art label was the highest tier he issued: reserved for instruments the shop considered exceptional. More about John Juzek.

This cello was made in the workshop of Roman Teller, who worked in Erlangen, West Germany from the 1920s through the 1970s. Teller was the maker behind the later Juzek Master Art instruments, including those bearing higher serial numbers from the 1950s and 1960s. He is known for a distinctive varnish technique that gives his instruments a warm inner glow. He died in 1974. More about Roman Teller.

Provenance

The cello passed through Metropolitan Music Co. of Stowe, Vermont, which was run by the Juzek family themselves. In August 2008, Rob Juzek wrote a personal letter certifying this as an authentic John Juzek Master Art. He states the cello was made for them in Roman Teller's workshop, held by the family for many years, and set aside because they felt it was of superior quality that would only increase in value over time.

This instrument is one of our cellos that had been set aside as we felt it was of superior quality and would only increase in value over time.
Rob Juzek, Metropolitan Music Co., August 2008

In September 2008, Paul Perley of Paul Perley Cellos completed a formal insurance appraisal. His assessed fair market value: USD $15,000. That appraisal is now 17 years old. Instruments of this maker and provenance have appreciated since. More about Paul Perley Cellos.

The Sound

I have played this cello. A 60-year-old instrument that has been properly played has a sound you cannot buy new. The tone is settled in a way that takes decades to develop.

Letter from Rob Juzek, Metropolitan Music Co., August 2008