F.Arnould was one of the better French makers of his time, he established his workshops at Saint - Maurice, Paris in 1882 and worked until 1924.. His work was considered to be exact in proportions and his instruments were sought after by virtuoso players of the Paris circuit. He only used the best, most highly figured timbers and paid considerable attention to detail. The length of the back is: 14.1/16 inches (35.7 cm.). No repairs or damage just the smallest of varnish imperfections. Set up with rosewood and ebony fittings, new Dominant strings and supplied in a new case. A really classy instrument with a tone to match!