Labelled The Guldan - 4/4 - - Violon - Inconnu

1. Introduction

This American violin, labelled “The Guldan” and originating from Ohio, reflects the early-20th-century Midwestern school of craftsmanship. Such instruments often blend European immigrant traditions with the growing American lutherie movement, resulting in warm tonal colours and reliable playability.

2. Historical and Artistic Context

During the early 1900s, the Guldan workshop in Columbus, Ohio, was known for producing solid, approachable instruments intended for students and advancing players. Their work embraced Central-European building methods while incorporating a distinctly American sense of durability and practicality. The present example shows the characteristic scroll profile, amber-brown varnish, and lightly antiqued patina consistent with its era and workshop tradition.

3. Craftsmanship and Materials

The violin features a medium-grained spruce top paired with flamed maple back and ribs, finished in a warm reddish-brown varnish. The scroll is neatly carved, showing typical Guldan workmanship. Ebony fittings, including the fingerboard and pegs, provide stability.
• Bridge: Original and properly aligned.
• Soundpost: Correctly fitted and stable.
• Strings: New factory-quality set installed.

4. Tonal Character and Playability

This playable instrument offers a rounded, lyrical voice with a warm lower register and clear treble response. It speaks easily under the bow, making it suitable for students, ensemble players, or collectors seeking an early American workshop violin with character and charm.

5. Condition
• General condition: Structurally sound and ready to play.
• Scroll: Small cosmetic chips present, typical for an instrument of its age. Please advise photos.
• Case: Included; old but functional.


6. Measurements (cm)
• Total length: 60 cm
• Body length: 36 cm
• Upper bout: 21 cm
• Middle bout: 12 cm
• Lower bout: 13.5 cm
• Weight: 460 g

7. Packaging, Shipping, and Warranty

The violin will be packed with professional care, including a protective outer box and internal padding. Fully insured shipping is provided, ensuring safe delivery to the buyer. The instrument is sold as described, with no further setup or restoration included.

8. Attribution

Attributed in the tradition of early 20th-century American workshop violins from the Guldan studio, Ohio.


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.