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Sotheby’s auction house had estimated that the “Joachim-Ma
Stradivarius” violin could sell for between $12 million and $18
million, with the higher end of the range potentially eclipsing
the record-breaking $15.9 million someone paid for another
Stradivari violin at auction more than a decade ago.
The “Joachim-Ma Stradivarius” is regarded as one of Stradivari's
best works, built during his “Golden Period” at the height of
his craftsmanship and acoustic mastery, according to the auction
house.
Adding to the intrigue, the violin is believed to have
influenced legendary composer Johannes Brahms when he wrote the
famed “Violin Concerto in D Major” and was actually played
during the concerto's 1879 premiere.
“This extraordinary violin represents the pinnacle of
craftsmanship and classical music history, its unparalleled
sound and storied provenance captivating collectors and
musicians alike,” Mari-Claudia Jimenez, chair at Sotheby’s. “The
Joachim-Ma Stradivarius garnered global attention, achieving one
of the highest prices ever for a musical instrument — an
acknowledgment of its rarity and historical importance.”
Bidding at Sotheby's began at $8 million and within seconds shot
up to $10 million, as auctioneer Phyllis Kao scanned the room,
looking for someone to put up $10.5 million.
“Am I selling? At $10 million,” she said, looking to potential
bidders.
The room was quiet.
“Last chance, at $10 million," she said. "I can sell, and I
will, at $10 million, unless you go on.”
“Sold. $10 million," she said, banging a gavel.
The final price includes auction house fees.
The name of the instrument comes from two of its famous violin
virtuoso owners, Joseph Joachim of Hungary and Si-Hon Ma of
China. Ma's estate gifted the violin to the New England
Conservatory in Boston after his death.
The conservatory will use the proceeds to fund student
scholarships.
“The sale is transformational for future students, and proceeds
will establish the largest named endowed scholarship at New
England Conservatory,” said Andrea Kalyn, president of New
England Conservatory. “It has been an honor to have the
Joachim-Ma Stradivari on campus, and we are eager to watch its
legacy continue on the world stage.”
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