A matchstick violin was heard for the first time in Poland in January 2014. The instrument was constructed by Polish bricklayer Jan GwiŠ¼dŠ¼ in 1937 from 16,000 burnt matchsticks, accumulated over a period of eight years.
Initially generating some interest and going on display in the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the violin eventually returned to its homeland. Here Jan’s grandson, Hubert GwiŠ¼dŠ¼, performed on the instrument with the Silesian Chamber Orchestra.
Subscribe to The Strad or download our digital edition as part of a 30-day free trial. To purchase single issues click here.
An exclusive range of instrument making posters, books, calendars and information products published by and directly for sale from The Strad.
The Strad’s exclusive instrument posters, most with actual-size photos depicting every nuance of the instrument. Our posters are used by luthiers across the world as models for their own instruments, thanks to the detailed outlines and measurements on the back.
The number one source for a range of books covering making and stringed instruments with commentaries from today’s top instrument experts.
The Strad Calendar 2026 showcases twelve of the finest instruments in the collection of Canimex, one of Canada’s leading arts supporters. They include masterpieces by Stradivari, Guarneri ‘del Gesù’, Guadagnini and Gagliano.
No comments yet