We do not actually know what this instrument is supposed to replicate, as it has no label. We do know that it is a Maggini-sized instrument (14.5" body). Unlike what most have come to expect in a Maggini copy, it has single rather than double purfling. Indeed, not all genuine Magginis do not have double purfling!

Based on our experience with "factory fiddles" of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the workmanship is quite consistent with violins from Saxony (Germany) and Bohemia (now the Czech Republic) in the period from about 1900 to 1920. The fiddle is very well-made and the varnishing (very dark, as consistent with the period) is top rate. The varnish is probably oil, as it does not show the type of breakdown that is usually associate with asphaltum (i.e. man-man tar, also known as pitch). Neither does the instrument smell like an old wharf (i.e. like tar)--asphaltum used to be preservative of choice for everything from docks to telephone poles).

We have set this instrument up for fiddling and fit it with Wittner Fine-Tune planetary pegs.

This instrument is quite sound and there are NO cracks or repaired cracks. It plays like a dream and has a very powerful and slightly dark sound. If you are looking for a playable genuine 100 year old fiddle with no damage, this one has your name on it!

No bow. We do have what looks to be the original case.