By Dr Matthew W. Hill
Finding your grandma’s violin in the attic with a “Stradivarius” label might spark excitement, but the odds of it being an authentic Stradivari are virtually nonexistent. The vast majority of violins bearing such labels were crafted as copies or tributes to famous makers like Antonio Stradivari, Jacob Stainer, or Nicolo Amati.
These instruments were primarily produced in Marjneukirchen, Germany, and surrounding regions between the mid-19th century and the onset of World War II. Markneukirchen was a significant hub for musical instrument manufacturing, renowned for its efficiency and craftsmanship. The area specialized in student-grade to mid-level violins, though some higher-quality instruments were also made.
Designed to emulate the style and dimensions of masterpieces by celebrated luthiers, these violins’ labels served as homage rather than deception. Original buyers understood they were purchasing models inspired by iconic designs rather than genuine works. Many of these violins were sold through mail-order catalogs like Montgomery Ward and Sears Roebuck, making them widely available in America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. By the time World War II disrupted production, hundreds of thousands of these instruments had been imported.
To identify a violin from Markneukirchen, look for certain telltale signs:
- Generic inscriptions on labels like “Antonius Stradivarius Cremonensis Faciebat Anno” without handwritten details typical of authentic Strads.
- “Made in Germany” or similar markings due to import regulations for post-1891 violins.
- Medium-quality tone woods and varnishes characteristic of factory production rather than hand-made artistry.
- Beautifully carved scrolls (where the tuning pegs are located) – the scroll carving can tell you a lot about the instrument’s quality. Fine instruments almost always feature beautifully carved scrolls, while lesser quality instruments can be quite crude.
Please note that if your grandma was the Concertmaster of the Boston Symphony Orchestra or the Vienna Philharmonic, none of the above applies, and you should definitely get in touch with me.
