Fine Antique German Violin c.1900 – Markneukirchen – Possible Heberlein Family For Sale

here is a very attractive antique full-size violin that appears to date from approximately the late 19th to early 20th century and is most likely of Markneukirchen, Germany origin.

Since originally listing this instrument, I have received an interesting professional opinion regarding its possible origin. German master violin maker Franz Ruppert, who has been a violin maker since 1989, examined photographs of the instrument and commented that it "looks like Heberlein family" work.

The Heberlein family was an important violin-making family in Markneukirchen, with numerous members and associated workshops active there. Heinrich Th. Heberlein Jr. and his workshop became particularly well known for finely made instruments modeled after old Italian masters. This violin is not being offered as an authenticated Heberlein, and I have no certificate or original Heberlein label establishing such an attribution. I am simply including this professional observation as additional information for prospective buyers.

The violin bears an old, heavily aged Antonius Stradivarius-style label inside. The label is so worn that it is difficult to photograph clearly, but I have provided a photograph of it. The label is not being represented as identifying the actual maker of the violin.

The instrument has a particularly attractive one-piece figured maple back, lightly figured maple ribs, and a nicely flamed neck. The varnish is a warm amber/reddish-brown with considerable character and convincing antiquing. The workmanship and materials appear noticeably better than those found on many inexpensive factory-made Stradivarius copies.

One feature at the pegbox initially appeared to possibly represent an old neck graft. Further examination has established that this is not an actual graft, but rather part of the instrument's original antiquing treatment. This type of deliberate antiquing is consistent with the appearance the maker intended to give the instrument.

Structurally, the violin is remarkably clean for an instrument of its apparent age. I have found no top or back cracks, open seams, or major structural damage. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.

I fitted the violin with a bridge and basic steel strings in order to evaluate it. Even when simply plucked, the instrument is very resonant, with strong sustain and noticeable body vibration. The violin will come with a new set of Dominant strings.

The violin includes its old case for protection and shipping. The new owner will likely want to purchase a newer case for long-term protection.

This is an intriguing old violin with beautiful wood, attractive varnish, a one-piece back, and now an interesting professional opinion suggesting a possible connection to the Heberlein family tradition of Markneukirchen violin making. It is nevertheless being sold conservatively as an antique German/Markneukirchen violin of uncertain maker, with no representation that either the Stradivarius label or the Heberlein opinion constitutes a definitive attribution.

It should make an excellent violin for an advancing player or professional.

SHIPPING: Please allow up to 5 business days for shipping. We take extra time to carefully inspect, prepare, and securely pack every violin before it leaves us. Antique instruments require considerably more care in packing than ordinary merchandise, and our priority is making sure your violin arrives safely and exactly as described. Tracking information will be provided as soon as the instrument ships. Thank you for your patience and understanding.