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Simone Sedda

Introduction

This full-size 4/4 violin originates from Germany and bears a label reading “August Dölling, Geigenmacher”. It represents a traditional German workshop instrument, produced for reliable musical use and intended for students, amateurs, and ensemble musicians.

Historical and Artistic Context

German violin makers and workshops of the late 19th and early 20th century supplied a wide range of well-built instruments for conservatories and private study. Instruments bearing the name August Dölling are typical of this tradition, emphasizing solid construction, practical design, and dependable tonal response rather than decorative refinement.

Craftsmanship and Materials

The violin is constructed with a spruce top showing even grain and a maple back, ribs, and scroll, finished in a warm amber-brown varnish with natural patina. The workmanship follows classical Central European models. The instrument is fitted with ebony-style fingerboard, pegs, and tailpiece, maintaining a traditional and functional setup.

Tonal Character and Playability

The instrument is fully playable and offers a clear, focused tone with balanced response across all strings. It speaks easily and is suitable for daily practice, orchestral playing, and ensemble work. Tuning stability and playability are good.

Condition
	•	Bridge: Original and in good, stable condition
	•	Soundpost: Present and correctly placed
	•	Strings: New factory-quality strings installed
	•	Case: Included; old but functional
	•	Damage: Several cracks were present in the past and have been professionally repaired; all repairs are stable and do not affect playability
	•	Overall condition: Good, with normal signs of use consistent with age

Measurements
	•	Body length: 60 cm
	•	Corpus length: 35.5 cm
	•	Upper bout: 16 cm
	•	Middle bout: 17 cm
	•	Lower bout: 20 cm


Attribution

German workshop violin, bearing a label
“August Dölling, Geigenmacher”,
attributed to the German violin-making tradition.


Length of the body: 36 cm
Width of the upper bout: 16 cm
Width of the middle bout: 11 cm
Width of the lower bout: 20 cm
Rib height: approximately 3 cm
String length: approximately 33 cm
Total length (including the neck and scroll): 60 cm


Packaging and Shipping:
Our commitment extends beyond the auction. The instrument will be professionally packaged and shipped within 3 workdays after payment, to ensure its safe journey to your doorstep. PostNL/DHL/DPD/UPS shipping options are available, tailored to your location you will always get the cheapest option. 

We understand the importance of a seamless process, and our team is dedicated to making your acquisition a worry-free experience.


Warranty:
Your satisfaction is important to us. This violin comes with a full warranty as per Catawiki’s terms and conditions. 

Notice:
Pictures in this auction are part of the description.






Violins and bows described as 'certified' or 'attributed' include images of their certificates and are therefore considered to have a higher degree of documented certainty regarding maker, origin, and age than instruments described only as 'labelled' (violins) or 'stamped' (bows), for which we provide no guarantee of any kind.




Excellent - Including: Violin - + Extra item (see description)

Labelled August Dölling, Geigenmacher - 4/4 -  - Violin - Germany

Musical Instruments

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Closing date

28 August

27 August

tomorrow

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Country of origin

Unknown

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Material

Wood

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other material (see description)

Gold-plated

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Condition

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Extras

No extra's

Original case

+ Extra item (see description)

Hard case

Strings

Gig bag

Chin rest

Guitar Case

Mouthpiece

Original parts

Road Case

Strap

Power cable

Power supply

Soft case

Guitar cable

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Period

1850-1900

1960-1970

1900-1910

2010-2020

Style

Antique

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Medieval Style

Signature

Signed by

Colour

Black

Clothing size

One size

Tested and working

Musical Instruments

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Labelled August Dölling, Geigenmacher - 4/4 - - Violin - Germany

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