This master’s thesis explores the course of violin development in the 16th and 17th centuries, its beginnings and origins, important makers of early violins of standardized form from Cremona and Brescia, such as Andrea Amati, Amati’s successors, Gasparo da Salò, Antonio Stradivari and their styles of violin-making. A shorter tradition of craftsmanship in Slovenia is also included. The objects of interest are the types of wood from which the old Cremona and Brescian masters made, because they differ from today’s style of creating new instruments in some cases. The following describes how the manufacturers influenced its development by improving and perfecting the form, typical properties, acoustics, sound and production techniques. It explores the transition from an instrument intended for accompaniment to dance to a refined and established virtuoso instrument, both solo and chamber and orchestral. World heritage sites, exhibitions, auctions and private collections where these instruments are kept are discussed. Furthermore, the number of owners and collectors who have owned these violins since they were made, and what is likely to have happened to the more important instruments if they are no longer preserved.
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