A.S. Hill (Seattle) Violin No. 82 — 1924 — Amber-Red — with German Workshop Bow & Case

A.S. Hill Violin — Seattle, 1924, No. 82 | German Workshop Bow & Case

Small Guarneri-inspired American violin with amber-red varnish, elegant workmanship, and warm vintage character

This 1924 A.S. Hill violin, labelled “A.S. Hill, Liutajio … Anno Dom. 1924 — No. 82,” is a beautifully made American violin from Hill’s Seattle period. Built with a compact Guarneri-inspired outline, refined arching, and attractive amber-red varnish, it offers a classic vintage look with strong player appeal. The violin is voiced for a clear, singing upper register, a warm and articulate middle, and a quick response under the bow. No. 82 places this instrument firmly within Hill’s documented 1920s Seattle workshop output, making it a compelling piece for both players and collectors of early American luthiery.

Condition:

Well-cared-for vintage condition consistent with a 1920s American violin. The amber-red varnish shows tasteful aging, light edge wear, and honest patina from age and use. The purfling, corners, scroll carving, and body work remain attractive and well executed, with strong visual character throughout.

The fingerboard and nut are clean, the pegs are functional, and the instrument is set up with bridge and soundpost in place. As with any century-old violin, a buyer may wish to have a luthier perform personal setup adjustments such as strings, bridge, soundpost, or action preference.

Includes:

• A.S. Hill violin — Seattle, 1924, No. 82
• German workshop/export violin bow
• Fitted protective case

Included Bow:

German workshop violin bow, stamped “Germany” near the frog. The bow features an octagonal reddish-brown wood stick, ebony frog with single pearl eye, mother-of-pearl slide, engraved nickel-silver style mounts, and matching decorative button.

This is best described as a German workshop/export bow, likely early-to-mid 20th century, and not a named French or Mirecourt bow. No specific maker or model marking is visible. The bow is a suitable player-grade companion bow and pairs well with the violin for a complete vintage setup.

The bow shows normal vintage wear, light finish marks, and age-related patina to the fittings. Hair is present, though a player may wish to have it rehaired or serviced depending on preference.

Key Specs & Features:

• Maker/Origin: Archibald Somerville Hill, Seattle, U.S.A.
• Date/Number: 1924, No. 82, as per internal label
• Model/Pattern: Small Guarneri-inspired outline
• Top: Spruce
• Back/Sides: Highly flamed maple
• Fittings: Ebony
• Varnish: Amber-red with golden/red shading and vintage patina
• Setup: Bridge and soundpost in place; ready for personal setup refinement
• Bow: German workshop/export bow, Germany stamp, octagonal stick, ebony frog, nickel-silver style mounts
• Case: Fitted vintage protective case included

“Sings in first and third position, speaks quickly under a light bow, and blends elegantly in chamber textures while retaining solo clarity.”

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Is this related to W.E. Hill & Sons of London?
A: No. This is Archibald S. Hill of Seattle, an American maker active in the early 20th century.

Q: What model or style does the violin follow?
A: It follows a compact Guarneri-inspired pattern, giving it a comfortable feel, focused response, and warm vintage character.

Q: Is the included bow French or Mirecourt?
A: No. The bow is stamped “Germany” near the frog and is best described as a German workshop/export bow.

Q: Is there a specific maker for the bow?
A: No clear maker’s brand or model name is visible, so it should not be attributed to a specific bow maker.

Q: Is the violin playable as-is?
A: The bridge and soundpost are in place and the instrument is set up, but a buyer may wish to have a luthier perform personal setup adjustments to suit their playing style.

Q: Are there any structural concerns?
A: The violin presents well for its age. As with all vintage violins, buyer setup or inspection by a luthier is recommended for personal playing preference.