Aegidius Klotz, 1775: Fine violin from Mittenwald (Certificate Hieronymus Köstler)

Fine violin by Aegidius Klotz dated 1775, as is documented by the original label. This delicate violin by the Mittenwald master Aegidius Klotz is a true bit of historic serendipity and offers us an insight into the early work of a master whose creativity and individuality were major contributions to his family’s reputation. Like his older brother Georg Carl Klotz, Aegidius Klotz did not closely follow in his father’s footsteps, i.e. the famous master luthier Sebastian Klotz, whose identity as the true creator of the Klotz violin went unrecognised for generations. Instead, his sons carried on the family violin-making in their own respective styles and with a unique personal mark, which was due not only to their outstanding training but also to the artisanal liberty that Sebastian Klotz gave himself as well. For this violin, Aegidius Klotz designed a model with an unusual silhouette that is unparalleled in the history of his art. Its elongated middle bouts give his instruments a powerful character, and in the course of his four decades as an independent master, he gradually shifted the position of the sound holes. Originally he aligned them exactly along the table, but over time he put them at a distinctive angled line, as can be seen here. The son’s style confidently stands out from that of his father in the scroll, which he carved into expressive artworks of spirited elegance. Unfortunately, the original scroll of this violin is no longer preserved and was replaced around the 20th century.  The back of carefully selected maple, the magnificently beautiful purfling and the delicate bee-sting all demonstrate the flawless quality of this historic Mittenwald Klotz violin. Its mature, beautifully balanced sound is full of noble character which features a blend of warmth and a sweet flute-like note. At our studio for restoration, our expert luthiers verified the good condition of the violin, which is well preserved with solid repairs near the inner foot of the bridge. Even the original varnish is still largely intact, something uncommon amongst instruments of this period. Our specialists have thoroughly set up this violin and made it ready to play – they have prepared it to return to the world of music. After a thorough inspection, we are offering this interesting Aegidius Klotz violin in immediate playing condition, ready to return to the world of music with its large, soft, singing sound. Free shipping, with an optional certificate, 30-day money-back guarantee and Corilon's trade-in guarantee.

 

 

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