Made by Nelphas Prévost (1904- ), 1978; Fassett, Quebec
Violin: swamp white oak, painted and varnished; 62 x 19 x 9 cm.
CMC 80-540.1
Violin case: painted and varnished wood; 77.5 x 28 x 12 cm. CMC 79-1560.3

In attempting to understand the universe and the antagonistic forces within it, human beings have constructed systems of interpretation from which they draw the imagery and symbols that enrich their works. The woodcarver Nelphas Prévost has adorned his violin case with wheels that evoke the dynamism of the sky, while the flowers and tree branches that decorate his violins suggest the fecundity of the earth.

These symbols, perhaps used unconsciously by the artist, correspond to the universal principle of dualism and complementarity of the female and the male.