This charming old violin, modelled after Jacob Stainer’s instruments, was made in the German Vogtland at least 150 years ago. The high arching and narrow waist, typical of this style, give the tone clarity and sweetness, complemented by a bell-like quality on the D string and an unexpectedly granular warmth on the G string. An antiqued, golden amber varnish enhances a one-piece maple back and a forceful winter-grained spruce belly. This violin will be a great choice for a player looking for characterful tone colours outside the normal Stradivari and Guarneri palette.