Austrian Baroque violin – Tyrolean model

This handcrafted baroque violin is inspired by the Tyrolean tradition and the work of Jacobus Stainer, one of the most influential violin makers of the 17th century. Known for their distinctive arching and refined tonal character, Tyrolean instruments offer a unique alternative to later Italian models.

This violin reflects that tradition through its construction, proportions, and sound, while maintaining a clear, individual interpretation.

Historical foundation – the Tyrolean school

This model is based on the 17th-century violin-making tradition of Tyrol (Austria), closely associated with Jacobus Stainer.

Stainer’s instruments are known for their higher arching, refined craftsmanship, and a tonal character that emphasizes clarity and articulation. This violin follows those principles, particularly in its arching and structural approach.

Rather than copying a single historical instrument, this model is an interpretation of the Tyrolean style, incorporating key features such as:

• pronounced arching
• a nailed neck construction
• wider spacing between the f-holes, contributing to tonal character

Construction and build

This violin is entirely handmade using traditional baroque techniques, without modern concessions.

• Nailed neck (authentic baroque construction, not a reconstruction)
• Single nail neck attachment, following historical methods associated with Stainer
• String length: 327 mm
• Back length: 356 mm
• Width: 200 mm
• Weight: approx. 334 grams

The construction reflects a deeper exploration of how arching influences sound and response, resulting in a refined and responsive instrument.

Fingerboard and neck

The short fingerboard is made from spruce veneered with maple, contributing to:

• reduced weight
• increased resonance
• fast and direct response

The fingerboard follows an original Eveldt design, developed specifically for this instrument.

Pegs

The tuning pegs are fully handcrafted by Elise from French boxwood, based on an original design—offering both functional reliability and visual coherence with the instrument.

Varnish and finish

The violin is finished with an amber oil varnish (fossil resin) in a blonde color.

This varnish:

• enhances the natural appearance of the wood
• supports resonance
• aligns with historical baroque finishing traditions

Setup and sound

• Strings: plain gut (unsplit lamb)
• Bridge: Stradivari style

Sound character

This instrument offers a distinct tonal profile:

• articulate and responsive
• quicker attack
• deep yet refined bass response
• delicate despite its power

The higher arching contributes to a nuanced sound with strong character and flexibility.

Intended for

This violin is particularly suited for:

• orchestral baroque players
• baroque specialists (Historically Informed Performance)
• musicians seeking a responsive instrument with clarity and projection

Craftsmanship and philosophy

This model reflects a deeper understanding of how structural choices—particularly arching—affect sound.

By studying historical examples and applying that knowledge in practice, this instrument represents not only a continuation of tradition, but also a personal interpretation of the Tyrolean style.

As with all instruments, every component is handcrafted, without modern shortcuts, and with full attention to historical construction and tonal outcome.