Estimation Violin

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Violin

Do you own any violin? Are you curious to know what they are worth? Our Experts can provide an appraisal to give you an estimate of the market price, then help you to ensure the best possible price should you decide to sell.

The history of the violin

The violin is a string instrument made by a luthier. It has four strings and is accompanied by a bow. It is often found in chamber, classical and jazz orchestras. The violin first appeared in the 16th century in northern Italy and soon became popular throughout Europe. Some great composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart helped to spread its influence. At the end of the 19th century, Paris became an important centre for creation.

The most prestigious violin models

There are several models that have marked history such as the Amati or the Stradivarius. It should be noted that some great benefactors who acquire such an instrument frequently entrust them to famous musicians. It is custom for the conductor to shake the hand of the first violin in order to thank the orchestra.

The renown of Stradivarius violins

Stradivarius violins are made in the workshop of the great luthier Antonio Stradivari. The high quality of these violins comes from Stradivari’s expertise and the quality of the wood he used. The price of Stradivarius violins is constantly rising. In May 2006, the Hammer (the name given to the Stradivarius) reached a world record, selling for 2.7 million euros. In 2011, a new record was set with the Lady Blunt (the name given to the Stradivarius), at a price of 11 million euros.

The sound of a violin

The sound of a violin depends on its shape and the nature of the wood. One important step is the drying of the particular wood species used. A violin is made of 71% wood and has three parts: the soundboard, strings and a neck. The size from one model to another can vary (an adult model generally measures 59cm).

Violin status

Antique violins are highly sought after by collectors, but you have to be careful, as a number of counterfeits are circulating on the market. The values can be quite high, as shown by this “Gand and Bernardel Frères” model dated from 1869 which sold for 16,740 euros. These luthiers were famous during the Restoration period and the July Monarchy. A more recent violin dated 1929 bearing the Annibal Fagnola’s label was sold for 105,400 euros in 2019. It is important to have old pieces regularly maintained.

How much is my violon worth?

First of all, one must be able to distinguish between a violin made by a luthier and a violin made in commercial workshops. In order to do so, don’t rely on the age of your instrument: a very old violin can still be a commercial instrument.

Furthermore, the labels inside your instrument will not guarantee the value of your violin. They are often of little interest.

The important elements that will determine the value of your violin are the quality of the luthier’s work, the selection of the wood and the state of preservation of your instrument.

The sound of your instrument is always a particularly subjective element. It all depends on the violinist and their performance when testing the instrument.

How do we appraise your violin?

Requesting an online appraisal of your musical instrument is simple. You just need to complete our appraisal form with a brief description and some photos. This information will be sent directly to one of our violin experts who will provide you with a price range and sales advice.

A team of experts and auctioneers

If you own a violin, use our online form for an appraisal.

You will then be contacted by a member of our team of experts and auctioneers to give you an independent opinion of the market price. Should you wish to sell your violin, our specialists will also advise you on the various options available for selling at the best price.

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