Johannes B. Smits (c. 1920s) 4/4 Violin Swiss

Product Information

This fine instrument was meticulously handcrafted by Johannes Bartholomeus Smits, a Dutch-born master violinmaker who relocated to Zürich, Switzerland, around 1916. Created in the 1920s, this violin showcases Smits' dedication to the Germanic craft tradition, reflecting his comprehensive training and expertise. The violin features a beautifully aged tonewood construction, with a richly grained maple back and sides, and a finely carved spruce top. The varnish exhibits a warm, amber hue, enhancing the instrument's visual appeal while contributing to its warm, resonant sound. Tonally, the violin offers a full-bodied and balanced voice, with immediate responsiveness and excellent projection. Its clear articulation across all registers makes it suitable for both solo performances and ensemble settings, providing musicians with a versatile and expressive instrument. The violin's setup has been carefully optimized to ensure ease of play and tonal excellence, featuring a professionally fitted bridge and high-quality strings. This instrument not only represents a piece of musical history but also serves as a reliable and inspiring tool for advanced players.

Length of back 359mm, Bridge position at 191mm, Neck length is 133, resulting in a working string length of 326mm

Violin Makers Biography

Johannes Bartholomeus Smits was born in Haarlem, Netherlands, and pursued a multifaceted artistic career before becoming a Geigenbaumeister (master violin maker). Initially trained in interior design, drawing, and lithography, he relocated to Zürich, Switzerland, in 1916, where he worked as a teacher and later became the director of the local arts and crafts school. His violins reflect not only a deep understanding of traditional violin-making techniques but also his broader artistic sensibilities.

As a Geigenbaumeister, Smits attained one of the highest recognised titles in European violin making. The process of becoming a master violin maker is highly demanding, requiring years of formal apprenticeship under an established luthier, followed by extensive hands-on experience crafting and restoring string instruments. Candidates must typically complete a Gesellenprüfung (journeyman’s examination) before gaining further experience and ultimately presenting a Meisterstück (masterpiece) instrument for evaluation by a panel of expert luthiers. This process ensures that master makers achieve an exceptional level of skill in wood selection, carving, varnishing, and acoustical refinement.

Smits’ instruments, made in Zürich in the early 20th century, are highly regarded for their refined craftsmanship, warm tonal qualities, and aesthetic beauty. His dedication to the art of violin making places him among the respected European makers of his time.

Professional Set-Up

At Bridge Street Violins, we offer a comprehensive professional setup that goes above and beyond the basic factory setup provided by most other shops. Each violin is carefully adjusted by our expert luthier to ensure optimal sound and playability. Depending on the instrument, this setup may include:

• Peg adjustment

• Fingerboard resurfacing (if necessary)

• Top nut adjustment

• Sound post and bridge fitting

• String height adjustments

• Tailored settings for enhanced playing comfort

This service ensures your violin is fully prepared for high-quality performance, tailored to your individual needs. It’s a level of care that sets us apart from other retailers who typically offer a basic factory setup.

How Long Will My Order Take to Arrive?

We’re a small, family-run workshop with a big focus on quality. For all the details on our delivery times, shipping options and how we’re working to reduce our carbon footprint, see our Delivery Information page.

Postage Options

Once your cello has been set up to perfection, we offer the following delivery options:

• Free Local Collection: You are welcome to collect your instrument free of charge from our workshop near Lincoln.

• UK Delivery: We’ll dispatch your violin anywhere in the UK, with a postage charge applied at checkout.

• EU Delivery: We are happy to arrange shipping within the EU, a postage charge will be applied at the checkout.

• International Delivery: Worldwide shipping is available with some exceptions. Please get in touch for an individual quote.

Violin Care Tips

To keep your violin in great condition and ensure it maintains its best sound, we recommend the following care tips:

• Storage: Always store your violin in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity, as these can affect the wood.

• Cleaning: Clean your violin regularly with a soft cloth to remove dust and rosin build-up. Be careful not to touch the varnish with your fingers.

• String Care: Check your strings for wear and replace them when necessary. Avoid over-tightening the strings, as this can cause unnecessary stress on the instrument.

• Bow Maintenance: Loosen the bow hair after playing and wipe the stick with a dry, soft cloth to remove rosin dust, preventing build-up and protecting the finish.

Customer Support

If you have any questions or need assistance at any point during your purchase or after receiving your violin, our team is here to help. Whether you have inquiries about delivery, setup, or care, feel free to contact us, and we'll be happy to assist.