Guarneri Trade Violin, Czech, One-Piece Back, circa 1910-1920 – CURRENTLY OUT ON TRIAL –

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Label:

We are offering a nice Guarnerius model trade violin made in Czechoslovakia early 20th century. The instrument was made in Schönbach, Bohemia, in present day Czech Republic. The AG in the trademark (SAG) refers to “Aktiengesellschaft” – a German word used for corporation. The violin was made in Czechoslovakia but wholesaled to the Markneukirchen area of Germany for sale. The distance between the two towns is about 30-40 kilometers. String instruments that were exported to the West between 1880 and 1915 are estimated to have been seven million. They were also measured in tonnage, leaving Markneukirchen by way of rail car. Our violin does have the famous makers name Guarnerius. The name is Italianized for us on the label to conjure up thoughts of famous Italian violins. The violin is a Guarneri model in very nice condition sporting a one piece highly flamed maple back. The hand work is above nice, and the wood selection is way above average. The varnish has beautiful patina and a classic look. A century ago this well-crafted instrument was made at a much higher level than of the same ilk today. We have meticulously gone over the violin, carving a new set of pegs, bridge, soundpost, cambering the ebony fingerboard, and the rest of the fittings are new.

Corpus 359.0 mm., Major Width 206.0 mm., Minor Width 169.0 mm., Rib Height 30.0 mm.

The violin sings with ample power in the entire voicing. It has a slightly covered tonal sound; warm, pleasant, and not as bright as a new commercially made trade instrument of today. The lower strings respond well and the treble side is more brilliant. The sound penetrates in the treble side but is not outdone by the lower strings. The instrument lays well and is easy to play. A beautifully crafted European violin with age.