Stamped Stainer - 4/4 - - Violin - 1980

Introduction
This full-size violin bears the brand “STAINER” stamped on the back below the neck button, identifying it as a German workshop instrument made after the model of Jacob Stainer, the renowned 17th-century Tyrolean violin maker. The instrument was produced in Germany, likely by Brandmann or a related workshop, during the late 19th or early 20th century. It is presented in playing condition and stands out for the exceptional quality of its maple back, which displays a deep, pronounced flame pattern across its two-piece construction.

Historical and Artistic Context
Jacob Stainer (c. 1617–1683) was one of the most influential violin makers of the Baroque period. His high-arched instruments were the benchmark for European violin making for over a century. By the late 19th century, the German workshop tradition — centred in Markneukirchen, Klingenthal, and Mittenwald — produced instruments bearing the Stainer brand to meet the growing demand from musicians and dealers. The quality of these instruments varied considerably, from basic student-grade to highly competent workshop instruments with selected tonewoods and careful craftsmanship. This example, with its strikingly figured maple, represents the higher end of the workshop spectrum.

Craftsmanship and Materials
The top is crafted from spruce with a fine, regular grain. The two-piece maple back is the defining feature of this instrument: it displays a deep, broad flame pattern with strong chatoyance, descending symmetrically from the centre joint across both halves. The “STAINER” brand is stamped below the neck button on the back. The varnish is a rich, dark amber-brown with reddish undertones, applied with depth and transparency that reveals the flame of the maple beneath. The ribs are of matching flamed maple. The scroll is competently carved with clear chamfers and proportionate volute turns. Purfling is inlaid along the edges of top and back. The f-holes are cleanly cut and well-positioned. The instrument retains its original neck and scroll.

Sound Character and Playability
The instrument is set up and in playing condition. It is fitted with an original bridge, original strings, and a soundpost in position. The ebony fingerboard provides an adequate playing surface. Four ebony pegs are fitted and functional. An ebony tailpiece with brass fine tuners completes the setup. The instrument is suitable for advancing players, serious amateurs, or collectors seeking a high-quality example of a German Stainer-model workshop violin with exceptional tonewood selection.

Condition
Spruce top in good condition with minor surface wear and no open cracks. Two-piece maple back in good condition with normal signs of age and use; striking flame pattern well preserved under the varnish. Original neck and scroll in good condition. Ebony fingerboard with adequate playing surface. All fittings present and functional. Original bridge fitted and soundpost in position. Original strings present in used but playable condition. Case included — vintage hard-shell case in used, functional condition with green velvet interior.
Please refer to the photographs for a detailed visual assessment of the instrument’s current condition. Pictures in this auction are part of the description.

Specifications
Brand: “STAINER” (stamped on back)
Origin: Germany (Brandmann)
Period: Late 19th / early 20th century
Model: After Jacob Stainer
Size: 4/4 (full size)
Total length: 60 cm
Weight: 400 grams
Strings: Original (used)

Packaging, Shipping, and Warranty
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Attribution
Branded Stainer, German workshop production (Brandmann), late 19th / early 20th century.

Notice
Pictures in this auction are part of the description.
Disclaimer: Violins described as ‘Branded’ or ‘Labelled’ offer no authenticity guarantee regarding origin. Only ‘certified’ or ‘attributed’ violins offer this.







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