Interesting violin, attributed to Dominicus Rief, around 1800

Dominicus Rief (1759-1814) was the best master of his family, which spanned four generations, and of Vils violin making of his time. This violin, built around 1800, was most likely made by his hand and is a striking example of his personal style.

The most striking feature of this characteristic, high arched model is the elongated patron, with which Dominicus Rief formulates an independent position within the Füssen tradition and Tyrolean violin making in the late 18th century. Also, the slightly acerbic touch of his carving, as expressed in the distinctive scroll with a nib, and the darkened varnish, covered by a pretty antique patina, are characteristics of Dominicus Rief's authentic hand. The one-piece back of extremely finely flamed maple indicates the high quality of tonewoods available to him at the time, underscoring the success of his workshop. During a thorough inspection, our luthiers were satisfied that some minor repairs, which are often found on instruments of this great age, have been soundly executed and do not affect the sound. Thanks to its very good state of preservation, this Dominicus Rief violin offers a mature, precise sound of fine, silvery character, whose distinctive profile is perfectly in keeping with the individuality of its external appearance.

• Historical violin, around 1800
• Attributed to Dominicus Rief
• Individual model
• Silvery, mature, precise sound
• Very good state of preservation, minor repairs only