NEW YORK — A 1714 Stradivarius violin is set to make history as it goes up for auction on Friday at Sotheby’s in New York, with the potential to become the most expensive musical instrument ever sold.
Estimated Auction Value: $12 Million to $18 Million
Known as the “Joachim-Ma Stradivarius”, this prized violin is estimated to sell for anywhere between $12 million and $18 million. If it reaches the upper end of that range, it could surpass the $15.9 million paid in 2011 for the “Lady Blunt” Stradivarius (made in 1721), which holds the current Guinness World Record for the most expensive musical instrument ever sold.
Crafted During Stradivari’s “Golden Period”
Sotheby’s Mari-Claudia Jimenez, president of Sotheby’s Americas and head of global business, emphasized that this violin was crafted during Stradivari’s “Golden Period” (beginning around 1700), a time that saw significant improvements in his craftsmanship.
“This is the peak of his output,” said Jimenez. “This is the best violin of this era.”
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Remarkable Preservation and Ownership History
The violin is noted for its remarkable preservation and extraordinary ownership history, having been owned by two famous violin virtuosos: Joseph Joachim, a Hungarian violinist (1831–1907), and Si-Hon Ma, a Chinese-born violinist (1926–2009). It is believed that the violin’s rich tone influenced composer Johannes Brahms when he wrote his famous “Violin Concerto in D Major”, and that Joachim played the violin during the concerto’s 1879 premiere.
Violin’s Legacy and Impact on Music
In 1969, Ma acquired the violin and later donated it to the New England Conservatory in Boston after his death. The conservatory, where Ma earned his master’s degree in 1950, is now auctioning the violin, with all proceeds going towards student scholarships.
This rare and valuable instrument is poised to make waves in the world of fine art and music.
5 facts explaining why the 1714 Joachim-Ma Stradivarius violin is so expensive:
1. Crafted by the Legendary Antonio Stradivari
Stradivarius violins are widely regarded as the finest string instruments in the world. Antonio Stradivari, the Italian luthier who crafted the violin, is known for his extraordinary skill and innovation in violin making, which has made his instruments incredibly sought after by collectors and musicians.
2. Made During Stradivari’s “Golden Period”
The violin was crafted during Stradivari’s “Golden Period” (circa 1700-1725), a time when he perfected his techniques, resulting in violins with unparalleled sound quality and craftsmanship. Instruments from this era are considered the peak of Stradivari’s output and are the most valuable.
3. Exceptional Preservation
The Joachim-Ma Stradivarius is noted for its excellent preservation, making it rare among antique instruments. It has maintained its structural integrity and sound quality over centuries, making it a valuable find for collectors and musicians.
4. Impressive Ownership History
The violin has had prestigious owners, including legendary violin virtuosos Joseph Joachim and Si-Hon Ma, adding to its historical and cultural significance. The connection to famous musicians and composers, like Johannes Brahms, further elevates its value.
5. Influence on Classical Music
The violin is believed to have played a role in the creation of Brahms’ Violin Concerto in D Major, one of the most important works in classical music. This association with iconic pieces of music, along with its historical significance, makes it a priceless artifact in the world of classical music.
