What should I look for in an antique violin?

This is a question for violinists and collectors of fine stringed instruments:

Let's say I was at an auction and an obviously old violin (with a bow and case) was being displayed before it was put up for bid. As a complete novice (who is interested in learning to play and has an appreciation for the history and beauty of these instruments), what should I be looking for when examining the instrument? Please be specific. Don't say "look for good quality" or "make sure it's in good condition". I don't know what good quality or good condition look like. That's what I'm asking. What makes this violin a good or bad investment? What are some signs that it's been well taken care of? Played regularly? Well-made and well-designed? True antique or knock-off? Also, any links to good guides or info pages would be useful.

What should I look for in an antique violin?phantom of the opera

for any string instrument, you should be looking for good tonal quality. This is, however, only one of MANY factors that goes into investing in an instrument. if you are just starting to play, I would not suggest going out to buy a really nice antique, but collecting is fine.

First thing you have to decide is how old you want it to be. If you want a Baroque Violin (the oldest), then that is a completely from most other Violins. you may want to look inside the Violin to see the name of the maker and when it was made (it will be on the label placed below the f-hole on the left).

If you are going to play it eventually, you want to have a really nice-sounding instrument. This decision is opinion oriented, but a novice shouldn't be alone in making a decision like this. Get a friend who is an advanced string musician to help you find the right instrument. A Violin that rings and has a sultry tone, in my opinion, is optimal.

many old instruments need to be repaird, and that can be costly. if you see a Violin that you want to buy, but is in need of reperations, you have to consider whether or not it will be worth it. Keep in mind that instruments often sound even better aftr being repaired.

good luck!

What should I look for in an antique violin?listen to opera opera theater

If you were a novice then you would NOT be buying an old violin at an antique auction.

You would have to play it to see what it sounded like or have an experienced player do that and give an opinion.

Then you would have to look at the condition of the instrument. Are there any cracks or visible defects in the violin ?

Then you would have to consider the provenance of the instrument. Who made it and when ? Where did it come from ? Who has owned it in the past ? Is there documentation to support this ?

A violin that has not been played regularly will sound a bit dull and lifeless. An experienced player will be able to tell by the sound when he/she plays it. Most old violins will show signs of use such as wearing of the varnish and a few chips off the timber in places. This should not detract from the value. The ageing of the varnish is part of the charm of the old violins and should never be touched or fooled with in any way. This would devalue it greatly.

Unfortunately I cannot give you any links because yahoo answers is not letting me post links this morning....I am not sure why? They are not coming up in blue like they usually do.