A Cultural History of the Violin in Nineteenth-Century London

Examines the violin's evolution as not just instrument but valued objet d'art through the eyes of musicians, collectors, makers, dealers, connoisseurs, journalists, auctioneers and traders. The nineteenth century saw developments in the composition, performance and reception of classical music that led to an unprecedented shift in how the violin was appreciated, from humble craft object to one of art. A utilitarian tool defined in 1800 by its tonal properties became by century's end an expensive