Vintage Guarneri Style German 4/4 Violin, ca. 1885

Product Information

This German-made Guarneri-style violin, dating from c.1885, is a beautifully aged instrument with a mature, resonant tone. Inspired by the legendary Guarneri violins, it features a slightly wider body, allowing for deeper bass response and a full, rounded sound. The craftsmanship of this violin is evident in its finely carved scroll, rich varnish, and carefully selected tonewoods.

Specifications:

• Period: c.1885, late 19th century

• Model: Guarneri-style, known for a broader, deeper tone

• Tonewoods: Spruce top, flamed two piece maple back, ribs, and neck

• Sound: Powerful and rich, with warm low frequencies and a brilliant upper register

• Fittings: High-quality ebony fingerboard, pegs, and tailpiece

• Strings: Professionally fitted with Dominant strings

• Bridge: Despiau Superieur bridge, optimally fitted and adjusted for sound

This violin is ideal for advanced students, professionals, and orchestral musicians who appreciate the depth and tonal complexity of a Guarneri-inspired instrument. The historic craftsmanship and premium setup ensure a playing experience that meets modern performance standards.

The Guarneri-Style Violin: Power, Depth, and Expression

The Guarneri-style violin is inspired by Bartolomeo Giuseppe Guarneri (del Gesù), one of history’s most revered luthiers. Unlike the refined symmetry of Stradivari models, Guarneri violins have broader bodies, deeper arching, and uniquely shaped f-holes, contributing to their rich, dark, and powerful tone. Known for their expressive warmth and projection, Guarneri-style instruments are favoured by soloists seeking a bold, commanding sound capable of cutting through an orchestra while maintaining warmth and depth.

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.

FAQ

1. What makes this violin unique?
This is an original late 19th-century German violin crafted in the Guarneri style, known for its rich, powerful sound and deep resonance. It has been professionally restored and set up for optimal performance.

2. Is this violin suitable for professional use?
Yes! With its mature tone, premium craftsmanship, and expert setup, this violin is well-suited for advanced students, orchestral musicians, and professionals.

3. What strings are fitted on this violin?
This violin comes with Dominant, chosen for their balance of warmth and clarity. If you have a specific string preference, we can accommodate your request.

4. Can I try this violin before purchasing?
Yes! We encourage musicians to book an appointment to try out our instruments in-store. Contact us to arrange a trial.

5. Does this violin come with a case and bow?
This listing is for the violin only, but we offer a range of cases and bows separately. If you need a full outfit, please let us know.