A Stradivarius violin under New England Conservatory will be sold by Sotheby’s for an estimated $12 million – $15 million.
The violin was crafted by Antonio Stradivarius in 1714. The instrument is particularly sought-after because it was crafted during the artist’s “golden period” – when he is said to have been at the peak of his career. What adds to the appeal of the violin is the great condition it is in. The violin, which is more than three centuries old, is not just in working condition but also in splendid quality – even by modern standards. Mari-Claudia Jimenez (Sotheby’s Chairman and President for the Americas, Global Business Development) said: “The first time we actually saw the instrument, we were really, truly blown away just by its presence.”
The Stradivarius is expected to fetch anywhere between $12 million – $15 million at the auction. This impressive price tag is not just due to who made it, but also who owned it. The violin was once owned by famous violinist Joseph Joachim, who used it during an 1879 concert of Brahms. It was also later owned by another famous violinist, Si Hon-Ma.
Also Read: Restored Notre Dame Set To Reopen Next Week
The NEC has decided to sell off the violin to acquire funds for expansion as well as take on more students. The estimated price of the instrument has been based on the number of such violins in existence (around 500 are left in the world), as well as past purchase history. The current record for a Stradivarius violin is held by a violin nicknamed “Lady Blunt”, which was sold for $15.9 million in 2011.
