Mid-19th Century German Violin (c. 1850–1860s) Stradivari Model Mid 19th Century

Mid-19th Century German Violin (c. 1850–1860)

This finely crafted German violin, likely made during the mid-19th century, combines excellent workmanship with the mature tonal character that only a well-aged instrument can offer. Featuring a warm brown varnish over a luminous golden ground, it has developed a beautiful patina that reflects more than 160 years of careful use.

Built with meticulous attention to detail, the violin displays finely executed purfling, elegant bee stings, and clean craftsmanship throughout. The maple back exhibits subtle figure that complements the instrument's understated elegance.

This violin has benefited from quality restoration during its lifetime, including a well-executed scroll graft and a professionally repaired f-hole crack. During setup at ZS Strings, an additional internal cleat was installed to reinforce the existing repair, along with a newly fitted Aubert Deluxe bridge and a precisely cut soundpost to optimize tonal performance and playability.

Tonally, this violin is open, resonant, and remarkably responsive. It offers excellent projection with a rich, mature voice that remains warm and balanced across all registers. Quick to respond under the bow, it rewards the player with clarity, depth, and impressive dynamic range, making it equally at home in orchestral, chamber, or solo settings.

Beautifully aged rosewood fittings—including the pegs, tailpiece, and chinrest—complement the violin's classic appearance while preserving its traditional aesthetic.

Whether you're an advancing player looking for an instrument with greater tonal maturity or a professional seeking the character and complexity of a fine 19th-century violin, this instrument offers exceptional value and performance.

Features

• Mid-19th century German violin (c. 1850–1860)
• Warm, mature tone with excellent projection
• Beautiful brown varnish over a golden ground
• Crisp purfling with finely executed bee stings
• Wonderfully executed scroll graft
• Professionally repaired f-hole crack with additional reinforcement cleat installed during setup
• New Aubert Deluxe bridge
• New precision-fitted soundpost
• Aged rosewood pegs, tailpiece, and chinrest
• Professionally set up by ZS Strings

Measurements

• Length of Back (LOB): 358 mm
• Upper Bout: 165 mm
• Center Bout: 112 mm
• Lower Bout: 205 mm
• String Length: 327 mm

Label

The violin bears an "Antonius Stradiuarius Cremonensis Faciebat Anno 1730" label. Labels of this type were commonly used on quality German trade instruments during the 19th century and should not be interpreted as indicating authorship by Antonio Stradivari or a manufacture date of 1730.