Stradivarius stringed instruments are named for being constructed by members of the Stradivari family, in particular by Antonio Stradivari. Antonio's workshop was set up in Cremona, Italy, and it was there that he created his instruments during the 17th and 18th centuries. Sourcing local wood, Stradivari's violins were made of spruce, willow, and Cremonese maple. The wood within the violins has been noted to contain high mineral concentrations and each instrument typically has superb varnish. Due to the excellent condition of the wood and its longevity, the instruments have generally remained in fantastic working order despite being several hundred years old. However, recent compositional studies predict a usable lifespan of perhaps another hundred years or so before the instruments will begin to fail.
Although constantly disputed, Stradivarius instruments, and Stradivarius violins in particular, have achieved world-renowned fame for their brilliant sound.
Stradivarius instruments sell for astronomically high prices because of how greatly coveted they are, fetching millions of dollars for single violins. Each Stradivarius instrument was handcrafted and individually constructed, and most have acquired unique names over time to identify their lineage as they passed from one owner to another. Approximately 650 Stradivarius instruments have survived to this day. Many modern instruments are labelled "Stradivarius" as tribute to Stradivari and his practices, though they are not authentic Stradivarius instruments.
Stradivarius
The Gould violin within the Metropolitan Musuem of Art, New York. Constructed by Stradivari in 1693.
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