On February 7, a New York auction house will launch an auction that is already the stuff of legend. A unique Stradivarius violin at auction is an event not only for the world of music. Therefore, the unusual instrument arouses great interest and much excitement, and the estimated price reaches millions. Most likely, the auctioned violin will become the most expensive instrument in the world.
Stradivarius violin at auction – history of the instrument
Stradivarius violins have for centuries been regarded as the quintessence of luthier excellence. However, their unique sound remains a mystery even to modern scholars. One such remarkable instrument is the “Joachim-Ma Stradivarius,” which will soon go to auction with a record valuation of up to $18 million. Created in the 18th century by Antonio Stradivari, a master from Cremona, the instrument dates from his legendary “Golden Period” (1700-1720). This is when the world’s most famous violin was created.
It previously belonged to Joseph Joachim, a prominent 19th-century violinist and friend of Johannes Brahms. He almost certainly used it during the premiere of his famous “Violin Concerto in D Major” in 1879. Later its owner was Si-Hon Ma, a graduate of the New England Conservatory. It was he who donated the instrument to the university with the idea of supporting future generations of musicians. Can you imagine a more remarkable journey for a single instrument? From the hands of great virtuosos to the auction halls, where its value is counted in the millions? That’s why the Stradivarius violin, which is on the auctions are legends like few in the world.
A unique instrument
Stradivarius violins are true works of luthier’s art. That’s why it is prized both for its extraordinary sound quality and its rarity. It is estimated that about 600 instruments made by Antonio Stradivari survive to this day. Most remain in the hands of museums, foundations and private collectors. Their prices at auction reach dizzying sums – the record belongs to the “Lady Blunt,” sold in 2011 for $15.9 million.
Nevertheless, the “Joachim-Ma Stradivarius” may set a new historical ceiling, reaching as high as 18 million. The uniqueness of this violin is due to its excellent construction, the use of the highest quality wood and a mysterious varnish. It is he who, according to experts, influences their unique sound. Added to this is the legend of Stradivari himself and the fact that his instruments have been played by the greatest virtuosos, from Niccolò Paganini to Itzhak Perlman. Is it any wonder then that this violin is a priceless cultural treasure?
Stradivarius violin auction – details
Auction An exceptional Stradivarius violin, known as “Joachim-Ma Stradivarius,” will be held on February 7, 2025 in New York, as part of the prestigious Masters Week organized by auction house Sotheby’s. The instrument, which dates to the 18th century and dates back to the “Golden Age,” was donated for sale by the New England Conservatory. Therefore, proceeds from the auction will benefit the university’s scholarship fund. The estimated price of the violin is between $12 million and $18 million.
Prior to the auction, the violins were put on public display in London, Hong Kong and New York. Naturally, they attracted great interest from collectors, music institutions and luthier enthusiasts. Will this be the instrument that breaks the previous Stradivarius sales record, set by “Lady Blunt” in 2011?
Luxury News Editor
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source: sothebys.com
Company: Sothebys
