READ THE ENTIRE DESCRIPTION AS TO THE RARITY OF THIS INSTRUMENT This is an incredible American violin, one of the nicest I have ever owned. Labeled No 22 "Rubenstein" 1938 Copy of 'The Messie Strad" Made by Sam J. Davis, Homestead, Fla USA. Sam J. Davis worked for VC Squire and moved to Homestead in the 30's. This violin is made with South American Koa, a type of Mahogany used mainly in high end guitars. Biography of Sam Davis - John Dilworth DAVIS, Sam J. Born 1873 La Guardo, Tennessee, Worked from 1936 Homestead, Florida USA. Received tuition from V. C. Squier and A. W. Swearingen. Generally Stradivari models, particularly the 1716 Stradivari ‘Messie’ violin. Used local American woods and own recipe varnish. Sam J Davis built some 100+ instruments. I got this from his Granddaughter many years ago. The beauty, construction, tone, playability, and details are phenomenal. A gorgeous violin with a dark reddish-brown oil varnish. I believe this is one of the absolute finest example of a vintage American violin you will ever see, made with properly selected quality tonewood, and the construction is by someone with immense knowledge of classical musical instruments. This is a violin of the highest quality built by a master. This example is the best I have ever seen or owned. It could easily be of Italian or Europen origin except for the wood. It is full size, and sounds so unbelievable. Sometimes a violin sounds good in certain areas of the fingerboard, but this one is so even, so wonderful in all positions on all strings--very powerful, sonorous, on par with my best European violins. There is no weak area, with complex overtones. It actually sounds amazing across all jonra of music. It is strikingly beautiful in it's own way. The top is a 2 piece spruce top of varying narrow and wide grain, unusual Koa 1-piece back and matching sides, neck and scroll. Nicely done purfling. There have been no visible repairs to the violin anywhere at this time. This is an instrument for an accomplished musician. Very personal model. Expertly cut perfect flowing f-holes. Impressive execution in every detail. Setup is professionally done. You will want your luthier to go through this violin and set it up as you like it. I played it as it is, but you may want to fine tune it to your style and preferences. I am offering a few of my fine violins at auction, and I am doing my best to describe them. This would make a fantastic main instrument for a professional artist. You must look at the photos carefully. If you want more pics, simply ask. There are a few nicks, some scratches in the finish and minor blemishes. Please look at the pictures closely and ask questions if you want to know anything about the violin. LOB 35.8cm (14-1/16"), upper bout 16.4cm (6-3/8"), lower bout 20.3cm 8"), OAL is just 23-1/4" (59.0cm). I do my best to describe my items accurately. Look at my perfect feedback. You are responsible for looking at the pics and determining if you want this violin. Paypal only. Non-paying bidders will be reported. Low feedback bidders please contact me first. Will ship USPS Priority packed professionally. Will be fully insured with signature confirmation. Feel free to make an offer. I will consider any reasonable offer. |