The maker listed is Lorenzo Alonso, active in Madrid circa 1770-1790. · The archive describes him as a violin maker (not explicitly viola) with auction record for a violin ($9,445 in Nov 1980). Madrid. While most references list Alonso primarily as a violin maker, it is possible that he also produced violas or other string instruments, as was customary for makers of his era. Spanish instruments from this period remain comparatively rare, and the Alonso name—though not as widely recognized as Italian contemporaries—represents a valuable thread in the Iberian violin-making tradition.

Labels bearing his name typically read “Lorenzo Alonso / Madrid,” though variants exist, and authentication often requires expert comparison of varnish, model, and label typography. His surviving instruments embody the distinct sound ideal of Spanish luthiers: warm, lyrical, and intimate rather than overtly powerful, reflecting the musical aesthetics of the late eighteenth century.

The present viola is 15 1/4 inches. For a small viola this instrument has a remarkably rich and large sound while also being extremely comfortable to play.  The viola is being offered at a great price of $17,500.00 When one notes that in 1980 a violin sold for over $9000.00 at auction according to that price, an Alonso should be about 5 times the price or approaching $50,000.00  today’s money. , This viola is accompanied by a certificate from  Jean Jacques Rampal in Paris , a world expert who believes the instrument to be made by Alonso.