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131:

A VIOLIN BY DOMENICO MONTAGNANA, VENICE, c. 1735

131: A VIOLIN BY DOMENICO MONTAGNANA, VENICE, c. 1735


Labeled, "Joseph Guarnerius filius Andreae fecit Cremone sub titulo S. Teresie 16..."

LOB: 35.4 cm

This violin was built on the maker's typical broad model and shows plentiful original varnish with a beautiful craquelure throughout. The distinctive pattern of inset patches in the back are evidence that the instrument suffered a woodworm invasion in a previous century and has since been meticulously restored, ensuring a state of preservation that can be relied upon for centuries to come.

According to documents, the violin was sold by Antonio Gagliani (sic) of Naples to Walter Ingles in 1833. It was later restored by T. J. Holder in London. In 1900 George Hart noted that it "has been" a handsome example but is "unhappily infused by the ravages of worm."

Most recently, this violin was owned by Howard Osborn, a mathematician and devoted amateur musician who played it regularly for decades in concert, chamber, and domestic settings, including performances at the University of Illinois. The violin is offered for sale by the Osborn family.
  • Certificate: Jason Price, New York, NY (Mar 6 2026)
  • Dendrochronology report: Sondre Lie, Oslo (Dec 4 2025) Dates the latest ring of the bass and treble side as 1721 and 1716, respectively.
  • Certificate: Dario D'Attili, Dumont, NJ (Sep 11 1976)
  • Letter certificate: Carl F. Becker, Chicago, IL (Nov 26 1975)
  • Letter certificate: Hart & Son, London (1900)
  • Bill of sale: Antonio Gagliano, Naples (Apr 4 1833) Detailing the sale of the violin as a Giuseppe Guarneri filius Andrea to a Mr. Walter Inglis for the sum of 36 Guineas.
  • Letter: Emily Osborn, Chicago, IL

View Documents


Ending time: Mar 6 at
1:50 PM New York / 6:50 PM London / 7:50 PM Berlin

Estimate: $150,000–220,000

High Bidder: Skippy
High Bid: $110,000
Including Premium: $129,800

BID HISTORY

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