This violin no longer has its label, but several foremost European authorities believe that it is of German origin, likely from well before 1700. One of them believes it is Viennese. A handwritten inscription inside indicates that it was repaired by the Burmeister studio in 1929.

This instrument has several intriguing features: it was signed in the back by Lorenzo Storioni with the date, which seems to be 1789, but which is very faded. The authenticity of the signature is not being disputed anywhere. Although this led to the violin at some point being ascribed to Storioni, it is now understood definitely not to be his work. The only plausible explanation for Storioni's signature in the violin is that the instrument was in use in Cremona at some stage and was likely repaired there by Storioni.

That this violin is very old, probably from before 1700 is inferred by a very distinct sweat patch to the right (treble side) of the tailpiece (see photos). This would indicate that the violin was played in the manner that the viol was commonly used (with the chin resting to the right of the tailpiece), and points to its being used well before 1700 when that style of playing was common.

This violin has been subject to repairs through the years, mainly to the top - all of it professionally done to very high standards. The pegholes have all been rebushed and reinforcements have been made to the inside walls of the pegbox. Supportive constructional inlays have been done all the way around edge of the table - a standard renovative procedure in very old instruments. This work may have been carried out by the Burmeister workshop in 1929, or else by Beares during the 50s. A number ("1761") stamped into the rib right under the endpin hole, is not a date but a serial number which corresponds to a reference system used by Beares. According to the Beares catalogue this violin was sold from their studio in the 1950s as an "old German violin".

This violin has fabulous character and everything about it speaks of quality. The varnish is certainly the original - the top is in a dark brown and the back was varnished in an amber-brown oil varnish of which much remains. Arching is quite deep and full, contributing to the rich warmth of tone. This violin is structurally secure and in very good condition.

This instrument is characterized by truly beautiful mature tone - rich in the bottom and evenly balanced over all the strings, right to the top. The high register is clear and pure - a fine match for the rich bottom end. It is a real pleasure to play on and should be in the hands of an appreciative professional musician.

Dimensions :
	Length of back: 35.5 cm

Condition :
	All repairs to this violin has been extremely well executed and this violin is structurally secure and in very good condition.

Provenance :
	Withheld

Price :

On request