Nicolaus Döpfer
Violin maker
(1714 – 1788)
Nicolaus Döpfer was the father-in-law of Martin Diehl and Jacob Steininger, and he effectively founded the Mainz school of violin makers. He was appointed as the instrument maker to the Court in Mainz. His work followed the Klotz style, featuring small edges, Staineresque arching, and a soundhole model, along with a rather swan-necked pegbox topped with a small scroll that had an extended last turn. The instruments were neatly finished and precise, although the varnish was thin and not transparent, ranging from dark red to almost black-brown. His violas were considered very worthwhile, while his cellos had very long center bouts and small corners. A printed label in gothic type read: Nicolaus Dopfer / Kurfsl-Maynzischer Hoflauten and / Geigen-macher 17..
Price History
- The auction record for this maker is $1,720 in Nov 1986, for a violin.
- 3 auction price results.
View all auction prices for Nicolaus Döpfer
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