[Fallingwater]

A friend of mine has an old violin, originally belonging to her passed-away grandfather, that *might* be a Stradivari.
She'd like to know how to establish whether it actually is one, or whether it's just a worthless fake.
Who to call? Where to go? How to make sure whoever sees it doesn't say it's worthless only to try to buy himself for a handful of beans later?
Thanks for any advice.
Edit: on the violin is imprinted "Stradivari faciebat in 1727", or something of the like.

 

[Denim]

This link may offer some info that you wish didn't exist.
stradivari

 

[caterpillar_36]

The good people of Violinist.com might be able to suggest a good violin shop, luthier, or the like in your vicinity where you might get some appraisal of its quality/worth. I'd expect that it would be pretty difficult to make a positive identification.

 

[milkpowder]

Take it to a reputable violin luthier/dealer like J&A Beare or Bein & Fushi. They have the most experience with violins and can certainly spot whether it was a real Stradivari. One word of caution: dealers charge a lot for authentication and valuations. Often it is a % of the value of the instrument. Other's opt for a fixed price. Ask before commiting yourself to avoid a nasty shock! There are also other places where they might help you, namely museums and auction houses. Try Sotheby's or Christie's.

Don't get too excited yet. There are so many copies around and yours could just be one of those. However, don't lose all hope. Some well-made copies are actually worth a lot, eg J.B. Vuillaume's, which can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Do keep us posted!

 

[seacard]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fallingwater How to make sure whoever sees it doesn't say it's worthless only to try to buy himself for a handful of beans later?

Umm, the best way is probably to not sell it to the person that evaluated it, regardless of what they say.

 

[milkpowder]

Quote:

Originally Posted by seacard Umm, the best way is probably to not sell it to the person that evaluated it, regardless of what they say.

A well respected dealer shouldn't do this, although you can never be sure.

 

[Fallingwater]

Quote:

Originally Posted by seacard Umm, the best way is probably to not sell it to the person that evaluated it, regardless of what they say.

Yeah, that much I know, but they'd still give a false evaluation.

Anyway, we've found a place here in Italy that concerns itself with Stradivaris. She emailed them, and we hope for an answer soon.

Yes, we do know it's extremely likely to be a copy.