Exploring The Most Expensive Violins in History

Now, we’ve all seen those pristine, glossy violins making sweet music in the orchestra pit, right? Well, brace yourselves, because we’re about to dive deep into the world of the most expensive violins ever made. I mean, seriously, some of these price tags could make your eyes pop right out of your head!

 

 

The Cremona Kings: Stradivari and Guarneri

So, we can’t chat about violins without bringing up two names that ring out like Big Ben in the music world – Stradivari and Guarneri. These two fellas, back in the 17th and 18th centuries, really knew everything needed to know when it came to making violins. Let’s just say, their handiwork makes your standard fiddle look like a kid’s toy.

 

Stradivari’s Golden Boys

Stradivari crafted violins – ever heard of ’em? Well, these beauties were made by none other than Antonio Stradivari – perhaps the most famous violin maker in the world.

We’re talking the creme de la creme of violins here.

A Stradivarius violin means perfection in sound and craftsmanship from one of the most famous luthiers in history. An antique violin made by Italian luthier Antonio Stradivari can be considered to be one of the best instruments in the world.

The violin maker Antonio Stradivari had a “golden period” from 1700 to 1725 giving us some of the most jaw-dropping violins around. One look at them and you’ll see why they fetch the big bucks.

Like the 1721 ‘Lady Blunt’ Stradivarius, named after a lady violinist who knew a thing or two about good music.

 

The 1721 ‘Lady Blunt’ Stradivarius

Let’s cover one of the real high rollers of the Stradivarius world – the ‘Lady Blunt’. Named after one of its former owners, the Lady Anne Blunt, this violin is as elegant and refined as they come.

 

The Story of the Lady

Built in 1721, during the golden period of Stradivari’s work, the ‘Lady Blunt’ has passed through the hands of nobility, collectors, and musicians. It’s like a wandering minstrel, each owner a chapter in its storied past.

Lady Anne Blunt, the granddaughter of Lord Byron the poet, was one of the earliest known owners. She was a lover of music and horses, and she knew a good violin when she saw one. The ‘Lady Blunt’ was her prized possession, and it’s been named in her honor ever since.

 

The Million-Dollar Melody

Now, what makes the ‘Lady Blunt’ so special? Well, aside from its pedigree, this violin is in fantastic condition. It’s like a time capsule from the 18th century. And its voice, oh boy, it’s like honey and velvet, a sound that can make you weak at the knees.

But the real kicker is the price. In 2011, the ‘Lady Blunt’ sold for a whopping $15.9 million at auction, making it one of the most expensive violins ever sold. That’s a price tag that’ll have your eyes popping!

 

The Legacy of the Lady

So there you have it, the ‘Lady Blunt’ Stradivarius, a real jewel in the crown of the violin world. This violin is more than just an instrument. It’s a piece of history, a work of art, and a testament to the genius of Antonio Stradivari.

Its journey from Stradivari’s workshop to the auction block is a tale of music and passion, of craftsmanship and heritage. It’s a symbol of the enduring power and beauty of music, a reminder that some things truly are priceless. And the ‘Lady Blunt’ is definitely one of them.

And then another expensive violin from Antonio Stradivari, there’s the 1716 ‘Messiah’ Stradivarius. As one of the most expensive violins in the world, the fact that it has never been played will mean it will continue to hold its value through the years.

 

The 1716 ‘Messiah’ Stradivarius

Alright, buckle up folks, because now we’re diving into the legend that is the ‘Messiah’ Stradivarius. The Messiah violin got a backstory that’s part mystery, part thriller, and all sorts of fascinating.

 

The Messiah’s Journey

Crafted in 1716, the ‘Messiah’ is one of those Strads that’s had a life full of twists and turns. For starters, it spent a good chunk of time unseen, stashed away in a closet by its then-owner, Luigi Tarisio. Luigi was a bit of a violin hoarder, and he kept raving about this spectacular violin he had, which folks started calling the ‘Messie,’ or ‘Messiah’.

The funny thing is, no one ever saw the ‘Messiah’ while Luigi was alive. It became a sort of mythical creature, a unicorn of the violin world. It wasn’t until after Luigi passed that the ‘Messiah’ finally made its grand appearance.

 

The Pristine Prodigy

One of the things that makes the ‘Messiah’ such an expensive violin stand out is its condition. This precious violin is in tip-top shape, almost like new. It’s hardly been played, which is pretty mind-blowing for a violin that’s over 300 years old. Looking at it is like stepping back in time, a peek into Stradivari’s workshop in the 1700s.

But don’t be fooled by its pristine condition. The ‘Messiah’ might not have seen much action, but its voice is sublime. It’s like a nightingale, every note a burst of melody that’ll have you leaning in for more. This violin remained as one of the best sounding instruments and continues to be one of the best preserved stradivarius violins.

 

The Value of a Myth

As for its value, well, let’s just say it’s off the charts. The ‘Messiah’ is safely housed in the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, and it’s not for sale. But with its incredible condition, illustrious history, and of course, its Stradivari label, it’s priceless. Some reckon if it ever hit the auction block, it could become the most expensive violin in history.

So there you go, the tale of the ‘Messiah’ Stradivarius. It’s a violin shrouded in myth, its story a melody woven with mystery and intrigue. Like a hidden treasure, it’s a testament to the enduring magic of the Stradivarius name. And boy, does it live up to its legendary reputation!

 

The ‘Lady Tennant’ Stradivarius

Alrighty, let’s jump into another Strad that’s got stories to tell – the Lady Tennant violin. Named for its once-upon-a-time owner, Lady Tennant, this Stradivarius violin has a tale that’s ripe for the pickin’.

 

Meet the Lady

Crafted in 1699, the historic instrument comes from Antonio Stradivari’s Long Pattern period. It was during this time that Stradivari was really experimenting, pushing the envelope on violin design. And you can see it in the ‘Lady Tennant’. It’s a little longer, a little bolder, a touch more daring.

But what’s really special about the ‘Lady Tennant’ is its sound. It’s got a sweetness, a delicacy that’s hard to resist. It’s like a gentle whisper, a soft melody that lingers in the air.

 

The Lady’s Tale

Now, how did the ‘Lady Tennant’ get its name? Well, that’s thanks to Lady Laura Tennant, a British socialite who owned the violin in the early 20th century. She was quite the character, always in the thick of the social scene. And she knew her violins.

The ‘Lady Tennant’ was Lady Laura’s pride and joy. She treasured it, not just as a beautiful object, but as a sublime musical instrument. It became an extension of her personality, a symbol of her refined taste.

 

The Price of Elegance

The ‘Lady Tennant’ hit the headlines in 2005 when it was auctioned off for a whopping $2 million. This made it one of the most expensive violins ever sold at the time. Its sound, its history, and its connection to Lady Laura all played a part in its high price tag.

So there you have it, the story of the ‘Lady Tennant’ Stradivarius. It’s a violin with a tale of elegance and refinement, bold design, and gentle melodies. It’s a testament to the genius of Stradivari, a symbol of the extraordinary beauty that a master craftsman can create. It’s not just an instrument, but a piece of history, a work of art, and a gentle lady with a captivating tale.

 

The ‘Prince Khevenhüller’ Stradivarius: Yehudi Menuhin’s Musical Partner

Let’s circle back to the virtuoso Yehudi Menuhin for a tick. This American-born British violinist got his hands on one of the most high-priced fiddles ever – a Stradivarius known as the ‘Prince Khevenhüller’.

 

The Prince’s Tale

This top-notch violin was crafted in 1733, right in the sweet spot of Stradivari’s golden period, and is one of the most expensive Stradivarius violins.

It got its royal title from one of its earliest owners, Prince Khevenhüller. Now, this wasn’t just any old prince, but a chap with a keen ear for a good violin.

From the prince’s hands, the ‘Prince Khevenhüller’ took quite the journey, with many a pit stop, before it wound up with Yehudi Menuhin. And when it did, sparks flew.

 

Menuhin’s Royal Romance

Menuhin and the ‘Prince Khevenhüller’ – they were a match made in heaven. When Menuhin played this Strad, it was like magic. The sound, the melody, the emotion – it was a symphony that could tug at your heartstrings.

Menuhin’s love affair with the ‘Prince Khevenhüller’ wasn’t a flash in the pan. He played this violin for a big chunk of his career, weaving his magic on stages all over the world. The ‘Prince Khevenhüller’ wasn’t just a tool for Menuhin, but a partner, a voice that helped him express his musical vision.

 

A Priceless Partnership

Now, the ‘Prince Khevenhüller’ hasn’t been up for sale for a good while, so it’s hard to put a price tag on it. But given its link to Menuhin, its history, and the fact that it’s a Strad, we can bet it’d be one of the most expensive violins out there if it ever hit the auction block.

So there you go, the story of Yehudi Menuhin and the ‘Prince Khevenhüller’ Stradivarius. It’s a tale of a musician and his beloved violin, a partnership that brought joy to countless listeners. It’s these stories that make these violins not just pricey, but priceless as one of the best violins in the world.

 

The ‘Molitor’ Stradivarius

We’re diving back into the world of Stradivarius violins, my friends, but this time we’re taking a look at the ‘Molitor’.

This beauty was created in 1697, another product of Stradivari’s Long Pattern period. Now, the ‘Molitor’ wasn’t named for a prince or a lady, but for a general. You see, this violin is said to have once been owned by Napoleon Bonaparte’s general, Count Gabriel Jean Joseph Molitor. Yep, you heard it right, a violin with a connection to the French military big shot himself!

 

The Price of a Past

But here’s the real kicker. The ‘Molitor’ went up for auction in 2010, and you won’t believe what it fetched. It sold for over $3.6 million, making it one of the most expensive violins ever purchased. The buyer? Well, that was none other than famed violinist Anne Akiko Meyers, who reportedly fell head over heels for the ‘Molitor’ at first play.

Meyers is known as one of the greatest violinists and she has access to many violins – some being the most expensive in history including both Stradivarius and Guarneri instruments.

But, the ‘Molitor’ is more than just a pricey violin. It’s a symbol of the enduring power of music, a testament to the incredible talent of Antonio Stradivari. It’s a reminder of how a great violin can inspire, captivate, and move us. It’s a story worth telling, and a violin worth playing.

 

The ‘Soil’ Stradivarius

Alright, let’s dig into another big-name fiddle. We’re talkin’ about a valuable violin known as the ‘Soil’ Stradivarius, an incredible instrument that had the honor of being played by the legendary Itzhak Perlman.

Perlman, in case you ain’t heard, is one of the most famous violinists in recent memory who used a variety of violin methods.

This fella’s got chops, and his ability to make a violin sing is outta this world. Now, what makes this even cooler is that he had one heck of a partner in crime – the 1714 ‘Soil’ Stradivarius.

This Strad is one sweet fiddle, crafted during Stradivari’s Golden Period when the master was knocking out hit after hit. The ‘Soil’ is known for its rich, full-bodied sound – a perfect match for Perlman’s expressive, virtuosic playing style.

 

From Royal Hands to a Violin Legend

The ‘Soil’ has an interesting backstory, too. Originally, the violin belonged to Amédée Soil, a Belgian industrialist and amateur violinist. But before Soil, it was reportedly owned by a king – Charles IV of Spain, to be precise who could have been the first recorded owner of the instrument.

This violin has seen some stuff which is precisely why it is one of the most famous instruments.

Perlman had this violin for a good chunk of his career, and it was with the ‘Soil’ that he made some of his most memorable music. The connection between Perlman and the ‘Soil’ was something special – a partnership between artist and instrument that really made the music soar.

 

A Treasure Beyond Price

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the ‘Soil’ Stradivarius wasn’t up for sale, making it difficult to pin a price on it. But given its history, the people who’ve played it, and its stunning sound quality, you can bet your boots it would fetch a pretty penny if it ever hit the auction block.

But to Itzhak Perlman, and to many who’ve had the pleasure of hearing him play it, the ‘Soil’ Stradivarius is priceless. It’s more than just a violin. It’s a piece of music history, a partner in the creation of beautiful music, and a testament to the lasting genius of Antonio Stradivari. Now that’s a story worth telling, don’t you think?

 

Guarneri del Gesù: The Crown Jewel of the Violin World

Okay, pals, let’s put the spotlight on another superstar in our violin universe – Guarneri del Gesù. The instruments crafted by del Gesù are the kinds of violins that’d have your knees knocking with just one look at the price tag.

 

The Genius of Guarneri del Gesù

Behind these golden boys is Giuseppe Guarneri, sometimes known as Guarneri del Gesù. Now, this guy was the dark horse of the violin world, crafting his beauties around the same time as our friend Stradivari. But while Stradivari was getting all the fame, Guarneri del Gesù was working his magic a little under the radar.

And let me tell you, a Guarneri violin is like nothing else. The sound, the shape, the feel, they’ve got this certain something, a little bit of razzle-dazzle, that sets them apart. You’d think they were spun from moonlight and stardust!

 

Guarneri’s Masterpieces

A Guarneri violin isn’t just any instrument played by a famous violinist.

These are works of art, every one of them. Each violin is like a time capsule, holding a piece of the past within its smooth, polished curves.

For example, the famous ‘Vieuxtemps’ Guarneri was owned by the Belgian violinist Henri Vieuxtemps. Rumor has it, Vieuxtemps loved this violin so much that he wanted to be buried with it. Now, that’s devotion! It was sold a few years back, with the price whispered to be around $16 million.

Then we’ve got the ‘David Guarneri,’ another gem that’s touched the hands of many a virtuoso. It’s a violin with a voice that’ll bring tears to your eyes. It’s held at the Library of Congress and is estimated to be worth a couple of million dollars.

 

The Magic of Guarneri

What’s the secret to a Guarneri del Gesù violin?

Well, if we knew that, we’d all be millionaires, wouldn’t we? But one thing’s for sure, Guarneri had a way of making his violins sing like no other. They’ve got a depth, a richness, and a bit of an edge that’s all their own. Playing a Guarneri is like dancing with the shadows – it’s a tantalizing tango that leaves you begging for more.

So there you have it, a sneak peek into the world of Guarneri del Gesù, the other high-roller of the violin world. These aren’t just pieces of wood strung with catgut. They’re the echoes of a genius, the legacy of a master craftsman, and the pride of the violin world. And with price tags that could buy you a private island, they’re also some of the most expensive violins in the world. But let me tell you, every cent is worth it for the symphony these babies can play!

 

The ‘Vieuxtemps’ Guarneri

Here is a very famous guarnerius violin, the 1741 ‘Vieuxtemps’ Guarneri.

The ‘Vieuxtemps’ Guarneri violin gets its moniker from the Belgian violinist Henri Vieuxtemps. This fella was a virtuoso who really knew how to make a violin sing. His muse? The 1741 ‘Vieuxtemps’.

The ‘Vieuxtemps’ was made during the later years of Guarneri’s life, a period when he was churning out some of his most distinctive and coveted instruments. This violin is a real showstopper, mates. It’s got a gorgeous, rich tone that’s so full of life, it’s like a whole symphony in one instrument.

Over the years, the ‘Vieuxtemps’ has been passed down through a line of accomplished musicians, from Vieuxtemps to Yehudi Menuhin. That’s quite the musical lineage, right? Each one of these fellas has added their own chapter to the ‘Vieuxtemps’ story, leaving their mark on its legacy.

What really makes the ‘Vieuxtemps’ stand out, though, is its price tag.

In 2012, it was sold to an anonymous buyer for an estimated $16 million. Why the hefty price? Well, besides its exceptional quality and rich history, the ‘Vieuxtemps’ Guarneri is also in excellent condition, considering its age.

Today, it’s on lifetime loan to the violinist Anne Akiko Meyers. She’s got the honor of being this historical instrument’s voice, bringing its song to stages around the world.

So, there you have it, the tale of the ‘Vieuxtemps’ Guarneri. This violin is more than just a pricey piece of wood. It’s a piece of musical history, a testament to the talent of Guarneri del Gesù, and a symbol of the beautiful music that can be created when a great violin finds the right hands.

 

The ‘Kochanski’ Guarneri

Paul Kochanski is a polish violinist who’s carved his own path in the annals of music history. Now, while we haven’t specifically chatted about him yet, he’s got a neat connection to one of our pricey violins – the ‘Kochanski’ Guarneri.

The ‘Kochanski’ Guarneri gets its name from our guy Paul Kochanski. This violin, with its outstanding craftsmanship and powerful voice, was a perfect match for Kochanski’s artistry.

During his life, Kochanski breathed life into this instrument, creating music that stirred souls and moved feet. His connection with the ‘Kochanski’ Guarneri wasn’t just about playing music – it was about creating stories, telling tales through the language of melody.

While there is no specific price tag for the ‘Kochanski’ Guarneri, considering its ties to Kochanski and the reputation of Guarneri’s violins, it’d likely fetch a handsome sum if it ever went under the hammer.

 

The ‘Carrodus’ Guarneri

Pivotin’ back to our fancy fiddles, let’s have a chat about the ‘Carrodus’ Guarneri. Created by Guarneri del Gesù in 1743, this violin is a darling in the world of music and has found a partner in a certain maestro from Down Under – Richard Tognetti.

This exquisite Guarneri is no stranger to the spotlight. It’s one of the treasured pieces of the Australian Chamber Orchestra (ACO), an outfit known for their collection of high-end instruments. But the ‘Carrodus’ isn’t just another violin in their arsenal – it’s got a special place in the hands of the ACO’s artistic director and lead violinist, Richard Tognetti.

 

Preserving the Most Expensive Violins: The Nippon Music Foundation

Okay, folks, let’s gab about a group that’s had a big hand in the violin world, especially when we’re talkin’ about those big-ticket violins – the Nippon Music Foundation.

The Nippon Mission

The Nippon Music Foundation, or NMF, is this outfit based in Japan that has a pretty rad mission. They collect top-notch string instruments, including a bunch of Stradivari and Guarneri violins, and loan them out to talented musicians. It’s like a fairy godmother deal, where these musicians get to play on violins that are worth more than a penthouse in Manhattan!

The Nippon Collection

Now, the NMF ain’t playin’ around when it comes to their collection. They’ve got some of the most expensive violins in the world under their roof. We’re talkin’ instruments like the 1714 ‘Dolphin’ Stradivarius and the 1736 ‘Muntz’ Stradivarius.

And it’s not just Strads they’ve got. The NMF also has a few Guarneris, including the 1741 ‘Vieuxtemps’ that I was yappin’ about earlier. These are the kind of violins that can make your heart skip a beat!

 

The New Kid on the Block: Modern Violins

Just because we’re all googly-eyed over these antique violins, don’t think for a minute that there aren’t some pretty cool, and costly, modern violins out there. Take the ‘Edwards’ for example. Made by Ric Heinl, it’s valued at about $100,000. It may not be millions, but it still ain’t chump change!

 

The Value of Music

At the end of the day, we’re not just talking about a stack of cash. These violins, they’re pieces of history, pieces of art, and boy, do they sing! Every time one of these prized violins gets played, it’s like they’re telling us their story. And that, my friends, is something you just can’t put a price on.

So next time you see a violinist on stage, take a second to wonder about that violin they’re cradling. It might just be one of these legendary instruments, holding centuries of history and a melody that’s truly priceless.