Rare String Instruments
Maegis Arts represents buyers or sellers in discreet private transactions involving historically important violins, violas, and cellos, including instruments by Antonio Stradivari, while coordinating the independent expertise, documentation, due diligence, and transaction infrastructure required for a credible sale.
Instruments we handle
Mandates concern historically important instruments by Antonio Stradivari, by Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesù, and by other important historic makers:
- Violins
- Violas
- Cellos
- Important bows
A note on terminology: the maker is Antonio Stradivari; his instruments are commonly called “Stradivarius”. Both terms are used by owners, collectors, musicians, and institutions, and both are correct.
Our role
Rare string instruments, primarily those crafted by renowned master luthier Antonio Stradivari, are a principal focus of our practice.
Our role is commercial, strategic, and transactional. We identify owners or qualified buyers, coordinate private access to an instrument, protect the confidentiality of all parties, assist the negotiation, and organize the required specialists at each stage of the transaction.
Independent expertise
Maegis Arts does not itself certify attribution or authenticity. Where a transaction requires it, we coordinate recognized independent specialists (violin experts, luthiers, restorers, certificate authorities, condition specialists, professional musicians, insurers, specialist transporters, and legal counsel), so that each conclusion rests with the appropriate authority.
Our expert
Alexandre Da Costa, solo violinist and conductor, is our rare string instruments expert. He advises on private sales with a performer's understanding of these instruments and the discretion our clients expect.