Rare violin by Matthias Hornsteiner II, a.k.a. “Dax” (Caressa et Français, Köstler)

In addition to the great tradition of the Klotz dynasty, violin making in 18th century Mittenwald also entailed another style that was no less influential, a style attributed to Matthias Hornsteiner II, who was called “Dax.” This particular violin is one of Hornsteiner's masterpieces and dates back to approximately 1770. It bears his original label and has all of the defining characteristics of the best Mittenwald instruments. The exceptionally lovely and very fine-grained spruce of the top is lacquered with a typical thin coat of darker varnish. Gentle, baroque soundholes and the expressive scroll on a long pegbox give the violin a highly distinctive profile. The instrument is in exceptionally good condition, with only superficial damage to an edge and two minimal repairs to the top — “authentique dans tous les parties,” according to an original receipt from Caressa et Français in Paris from 18 April 1913. Our experienced luthier looked over this antique piece thoroughly and made it ready to play. The delicate, nuanced and singing voice of this violin is solid confirmation of its builder's mastery. With a certificate issued by the renowned expert Hieronymus Köstler, Stuttgart.