German Violin, Markneukirchen/Vogtland, c.1885–1910

Bearing a spurious “Michael Aithner, Allgäu 1783” label

A handsome German trade violin made in the Markneukirchen/Vogtland region around the turn of the twentieth century. This well-established centre of violin making supplied instruments to musicians throughout Europe and beyond, and examples such as this remain valued for their reliable construction, pleasing appearance and satisfying playing qualities.

The violin has a warm golden-brown varnish laid over an attractive lightly flamed maple back and ribs. It displays the clean, practical workmanship associated with a good workshop instrument of the period, including neatly cut f-holes, a well-proportioned scroll and a finely grained spruce table.

Internally, it bears a label reading “Michael Aithner, Allgäu 1783”. This label is not original to the instrument and should be regarded as spurious; the violin is correctly attributed to the Markneukirchen/Vogtland workshop trade of circa 1885–1910.

Tonally, this is a responsive and enjoyable violin with a clear, focused core to the sound. The lower register is warm and rounded, while the upper strings speak readily with brightness and sufficient carrying power for ensemble playing, lessons and smaller performance settings. It offers an even response across the strings, making it an appealing choice for an advancing player seeking a characterful old German instrument at an accessible level.

A charming and practical violin with genuine period character, suitable for players looking for an instrument with warmth, clarity and traditional European craftsmanship.

The back in a single piece of maple of faint medium curl running horizontally across the back. The ribs, pegbox and scroll of plain maple. The front in two matching pieces of spruce of medium grain in the centre broadening towards the flanks.

Length of back 360 mm

Width upper bout 162 mm

Width middle bout 110 mm

Width Power bout 199 mm

Delivery

We deliver to customers across the UK and worldwide. Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive an email confirmation with your shipping details and tracking number.

We work with trusted courier partners such as UPS and Parcelforce to ensure the safe and prompt delivery of your purchase.

Please note that if you cancel your order for any reason other than those set out in our Returns and Refund Policy (for example, if you change your mind prior to dispatch or shortly after), we reserve the right to deduct any associated payment processing fees—such as PayPal or card transaction charges—from the amount refunded.

Returns and Exchanges

We understand that sometimes a product may not meet your expectations. You may return your item within 30 days of delivery for a full refund, provided it is in its original packaging and in resaleable condition. The cost of return shipping is the responsibility of the customer unless the product is faulty or incorrectly supplied.

Please include your full contact details and either the original invoice or a note clearly stating your name, address, order number, and whether you’d like an exchange or refund.

Returns should be sent to:

Standard Returns Policy

We are happy to exchange or refund any item that is faulty, damaged, or unsuitable for your needs. To qualify, items must be returned within 14 days of receipt, in perfect condition, and in their original sealed packaging with all labels and seals intact.

Your statutory rights are not affected. Please refer to our full Refund Policy below for additional information.

How to Return an Item (UK Customers)

• Pack the item securely in its original packaging (or an alternative sturdy box if necessary).
• Remove any old delivery labels.
• Enclose your invoice or a note including your name, address, contact details, and order number.
• Use a tracked postal or courier service of your choice when sending your return.
• Customers are responsible for the cost of return postage, which will not be reimbursed unless the item is found to be faulty or sent in error.

Once we receive your return, we will process it within 14 days. Refunds will be made to your original payment method, minus any applicable postage costs or transaction fees.

UK Exchanges

If you wish to exchange an item, we will cover the postage for the first replacement to UK addresses. Please include a note with your parcel clearly stating the item you wish to receive in exchange.

International Returns

Customers returning items from outside the UK are required to use a duty-paid service. Returns sent via duty unpaid or held by customs cannot be accepted.

Please securely repack your item (preferably in its original packaging) and remove all old shipping labels. We do not cover international return shipping costs. You must use a tracked, insured service suitable for your region.

Standard Returns Address

Please include your contact details, invoice, or a note indicating whether you would like a refund or exchange. You are responsible for paying return postage costs, and we recommend adequate postal insurance in case your parcel is lost or damaged in transit.

For any return queries, please email enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london.

Refunds

Refunds are issued to the original payment method used for purchase. While we aim to process all refunds within 24 hours of receiving the return, please allow up to 10 working days for the funds to appear in your account, depending on your payment provider.

In cases where an item is faulty, we may reimburse reasonable return postage costs upon confirmation. Please contact us at enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london for assistance.

Refunds will only be processed once the returned goods have been received and inspected. Proof of postage must be retained as evidence of return.

Refund Policy Summary

• Returns are accepted within 14 days of receipt.
• Items must be unused, in their original packaging, with all tags attached.
• Returns without prior approval may not be accepted.
• Certain items are non-returnable, including perishable goods, custom-made items, personal goods, sale items, and gift cards.
• Damaged or defective items must be reported immediately upon receipt.
• Refunds, once approved, are issued to the original payment method. Original shipping charges are non-refundable, and deductions may apply for payment processing fees (e.g., PayPal).

For return requests or questions, please contact: enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london.