violin case

A violin case from the 19th century has sold for a record $17,220 at an auction in Boston, MA, US. Made in c.1887 by W.E. Hill & Sons in London, the case was listed with an estimate of $6,000–$8,000.

The case is one of twelve known as the ‘Apostles’. Commissioned in 1887 and produced specifically to house violins made by Antonio Stradivari, each one is decorated with music-themed marquetry of exotic woods, as well as fine paper lining and brass hardware. However, their construction was so time-consuming that their production was discontinued after a dozen had been created. Another example can be seen here.

Click on any image below to see a larger version

All images courtesy Skinner Inc

Subscribe to The Strad or download our digital edition as part of a 30-day free trial. To purchase single issues click here.