Antique violin by Friedrich August Glass, Klingenthal, c1850

Friedrich August Glass II. was one of the Klingenthaler ateliers that help establish the good reputation which violin making earned for itself in the Vogtland region in the 19th century. This unlabeled violin is an persuasive example of the high standards which were applied in selecting their materials and executing their craftsmanship. The inside of the F.A. Glass violin does not bear a label, but due to its characteristic features most likely originates from this workshop. It is a typical Klingenthal “native” with very transparent brown varnish on a golden-yellow background; the combined effect creates charmingly luminous plays of flickering light against the flames of the mildly flamed maple back. The purfling and the meticulously shaped interior bear witness to the detailed precision of the work. This violin is in good condition, with only some minor repairs. It was worked over by our luthier and is offered ready to play. Its bright sound shares the remarkable resonance that only older violins posses, a voice that is open and precise, sinuous and warm in the lower registers.