Antonio Stradivari's (1644–1737) name is associated with the highest quality possible. If Rembrandt, Shakespeare and Einstein are the giants in their field, Stradivari can be also included in the pantheon. This master, who lived in Cremona, developed the art of violin making to such a level that it has not proven possible to better it despite numerous attempts.
Stradivari developed a violin design that most still consider to be the ideal. Known as the “golden design”, it was created around 1700, and the master continued to turn out exceptionally fine instruments for another 25 years. It is impossible to find any actual weaknesses in these instruments from Stradivari’s “golden period”: they are aesthetically elegant and technically flawless. Simply as a craftsman, there cannot be many like Stradivari in the history of the world.
In Finland, there are a few violins made by Stradivari, but as far as is known, there is only one instrument from the golden period, which is owned by OP Ryhmän Taidesäätiö sr (OP Art Foundation). This violin, made in 1702, was acquired for the Foundation’s collection in 1986. The Stradivarius, which originally belonged to the collection of Harry Wahl, who was from Vyborg, became something of a media event on its arrival in Finland from the United States.
OP Art Foundation’s Stradivarius has a harmonious shape and is similarly distinctive with its slightly a symmetrical shape. The instrument’s front and back are well-rounded: maximum intensity of sound has not been the objective, but a rich scale of colour and tones. Typical of Stradivariuses is the virtually unlimited range of various nuances that can be produced from the instruments. Naturally, the finish of the violin’s details is perfect.
OP Art Foundation’s Stradivarius is currently played by Albert Sahlström. The violin’s previous holder was Rebecca Roozeman.
