Free Worldwide Shipping
Personalised Recommendations
Book a Video Appointment
Free Worldwide Shipping
Explore the elusive art of antiquing violins, a skillful blend of old-world charm & modern craftsmanship, showcased in contemporary masterpieces.
In the world of violin making, antiquing - the process of applying a patina of age to a new instrument - enhances this beauty, marrying the charm of yesteryears with the ingenuity of contemporary craftsmanship. Steeped in tradition and demanding the most skillful and nuanced of hands, the art of antiquing has long been part of the world of luthiery, dating back hundreds of years. Yet, despite its extensive history, it remains a captivating and elusive art, a fascinating dance between aging and preservation, time and timelessness.
Here are some recent examples from our collection that we believe are stunning examples of the art of antiquing by some of the finest violin makers of our generation:
.jpg)
Gonzalo Bayolo consistently produces some of the finest contemporary violins we come across. From the outstanding craftsmanship to the depth and power of tone, he is one of the best luthiers of his generation. This expertly antiqued Guarneri model is very popular amongst musicians in the UK. We have sold his violins to orchestral leaders, players in major orchestras as well as knowledgeable collectors. The sound of this violin is complete. It is well balanced and produces an even and focused sound throughout. Its tone has the power and projection of a soloist's instrument but without sacrificing any depth and warmth of sound. It is one of the most versatile violins you can find. The price of his instruments is quickly rising along with his popularity so this in an excellent opportunity for a long-term acquisition.
Based in Santiago de Compostela, Gonzalo Bayolo brings together respect for tradition and an innovative spirit into the instrument making process. Led by a deep knowledge of the science and history of his trade, he imbues his creations with dynamism and an original interpretation, granting them a unique character. He also works widely as a restorer, holding a "Hans Weishaar" certificate.
Marc Paquin needs no introduction. He is one of our favourite makers and produces consistently great sounding instruments. With over a decade of research into sound, power, timbre, and playability, this violin is a testament to Paquin's expertise and dedication to his craft. This Stradivari model makes a very large sound with huge projection and a beautiful timbre. It is very round and even with a powerful E string and responds perfectly to the player's input. Today, his violins are played by professionals and international soloists all over the world, from Spain to Australia.
Marc Paquin discovered in 2000 his passion for violin making. He had the great chance to learn in Switzerland with Philippe Girardin and Sylvain Rusticoni, winners of gold medals in Cremona and in the United-States. He also followed restoration courses with Jean-Jacques Fasnacht.
Since 2006 Marc Paquin has been investigating on his own about sound, power, timbre and playability of string instruments. They are nowadays being played all around the world by professionals and international soloists, such as Sergey Malov, Leticia Moreno, Jean-Jacques Kantorow, Tatiana Samouil, Sungsic Yang,… in Spain, England, Switzerland, France, Germany, Belgium, Holland, Austria, USA, Canada, Korea, China, Australia,…
We have always wanted to have one of Philippe Girardin's violins in our showroom. As one of he finest makers in Europe, he is in high demand making it at even more special proposition. His instruments are played by top musicians in Switzerland and abroad. This is an unusual model, a copy of a C. Testore violin; the craftsmanship is absolutely superb and the varnish is second to none. The sound is refined and sophisticated and has a unique character which shines through naturally. The lower end is smooth and warm but the standout feature is the E string, which is brilliant and focused. This allows the violin to sing, whilst retaining very good projection.
Since 1762, the Hill name has represented a combination of craftsmanship and the highest standards of expertise. Today, under the supervision of Peter Greiner and Robert Brewer Young, the company carries on with its great legacy of violin making, with its latest instruments continuing where the old Hill instruments left off. The name Hill is synonymous with English violin making and this violins is no different, being fully crafted in their beautiful Hampstead studio. This Guarneri is a charming and balanced instrument. The E string sings beautifully and the whole range of the violin offers depth and resonance. It is a very versatile violin and will enable the player to seamlessly transition between settings.
Since 1762, the name Hill has represented a combination of craftsmanship and the highest standards of expertise that the firm continues to offer, with a long and distinguished history of instrument and bow making.
In continuing the tradition of W. E. Hill & Sons, they assembled a talented team to produce instruments, bows, and accessories to exacting standards for contemporary concert artists.
Every instrument and bow is made entirely in their Hampstead workshop.
The construction of W. E. Hill & Sons instruments is continuing under the direction of Stefan-Peter Greiner and Robert Brewer Young. The instruments are modelled after golden-period Stradivari, including the Messiah of 1716, notable Bergonzis and the Rode Guarneri del Gesu of 1734. These instruments all have historical connections to the W. E. Hill & Sons firm.
Possibly the best-known maker in France, Frédéric Chaudière is consistently making instruments of very high quality. This violin is no different, boasting his signature style with a deep red and honey-brown colour that enhances the natural grain of the wood. The one-piece back exhibits a strong, flamed maple with a distinct, flowing pattern, perfect for aesthetic and acoustic qualities. In terms of sound, it has a characteristic dark Guarneri sound with emphasis on the G string. The natural fullness of the instrument allows it to resonate freely and gives the musician a lot of flexibility. The power and colour palette makes this one of the most versatile violins we have.
The workshop of Frédéric Chaudière, opened in 1986, is located in the Hotel Magnol. There, he builds violins, violas and cellos for famous musicians from all over the world.
MyLuthier was started by two friends while they were studying at the Royal Academy of Music in London. The idea was to provide musicians with exceptional instruments at a price they can afford. We travelled Europe in search for the best contemporary makers and we’re proud of our selection and the partnerships we’ve developed.
Rare antique instruments, representing both historical significance and unparalleled craftsmanship.
View Instruments
Here are some of our favourite high-quality violins at this price range. These are by makers that we have worked with for years and selected by musicians for their playing qualities and distinctive tone.
Choosing the right violin bow is often a much more challenging task than choosing the right instrument. The bow should act as an almost subconscious extension of your arm and it can be close to impossible to put your thoughts and opinions into words.
When it comes to the aesthetics of a contemporary instrument, makers usually split into two categories: new-looking instruments that show their true age and the antique look so often preferred by players in reverence to the old masters.
.png)
