Bavaria, SE Germany
Folk-crafted

Wood, metal
ca. 1850’s
Length: 24 in, Width: 8.25 in
Lutes – Violin Family – Folk Fiddle

Bavaria is the largest state located in southeast Germany.  While many think of the Alphorns, button accordions, and predominantly brass horn ensembles in the Alps, the violin is seen as the queen of instruments.  In particular, violins made in the  Upper Bavarian town of Mittenwald are considered one of the most prestigious musical instruments in Bavaria.  The violin craftsmen have been perfecting their craft since the 17^th century, which can be retraced in the Geigenbaumuseum (Violin Making Museum).

However this Bavarian folk fiddle is handcrafted by a skilled artisan, possibly one who attended the renowned Mittenwald violin-making school, rather than a production from the industrialized factory in Mittenwald.  The wooden carved body has slightly thicker carved edges for the trim and the curved tailpiece is attached to a wooden knob at the bottom of the body.  The back of the body is intricately carved with the upper half (up towards the neck) showing a carving of a floral stylized face.  The bottom half of the back of the violin connects to the face that is stylized as a leafy crown which includes at the very bottom the French ‘fleur-de-lis’.  European nations other than France have employed this symbol at one time or another.

The violin making industry in Mittenwald collapsed after World War I.   Nevertheless, it was  revived after WWII and continue to be distinguished by violins of outstanding quality. 

Resource: https://www.corilon.com/us/library/towns-and-regions/mittenwald-violin-making-in-the-midst-of-the-forest