Fine Mittenwald violin no. 26 by Franz Simon, circa 1830

This historic Mittenwald violin No. 26 by Franz Simon was crafted around 1830 and opens up a rich range of interpretations to satisfy the high standards of good musicians – in part because it was kept in such excellent condition that its warm, large sound has been able to mature for nearly 100 years.

Franz Simon is one of the representatives of the newer school of Mittenwald violin making in the early 19th century, yet very little is known about his professional biography, family background and teachers. This absence of information is especially painful since any potential links to his namesake – the Franz Simon of one generation of luthiers earlier who also hailed from Mittenwald and was highly regarded in Salzburg – would reveal far more than simply interesting details about the evolution of the traditional Klotz school of violin making. The main source of information available to us about the younger Franz Simon is his oeuvre, such as the impressive violin presented here, and our team of musicians and violin-making experts was won over by its appealing aesthetic and its magnificent full-bodied sound. With its premium-quality finely grained spruce top and gently flamed maple back, the body of the violin was fashioned after a model with flat ribs, and its well-designed and mature design reflects the experience of a craftsman at the zenith of his creative abilities. The delicate purfling positioned close to the edge as well as the harmonious carving of the scroll both show at a glance what masterful artisanry Mittenwald violin maker Franz Simon brought to every detail of his work. Over the course of time, a charming patina developed on the golden-brown varnish, showing interesting traces of use which confirm that this violin was played often and appreciated by previous generations of fine musicians. Kept in perfect condition without any significant repairs, the violin was set up and made ready to play by our luthiers; it is a dependable choice for talented amateur musicians and qualifies for our trade-in guarantee. The large, mature and fully well-developed sound is a voice full of warmth, rich timbres and a radiant and sweet character in its upper registers. It will bring its owner great musical joy in interpreting demanding literature and when played in chamber ensembles and orchestras.