In the world of musical instruments, few pieces can boast the historical significance and financial value as the 'Lady Blunt' Stradivarius violin. Named after Lady Anne Blunt, who owned it for 30 years, this violin represents one of the best-preserved examples of Antonio Stradivari's craftsmanship from the golden period of the early 18th century. The instrument, made in 1721, managed to retain its pristine condition through centuries, a rarity for string instruments that are typically affected by the wear and tear of use.
In 2011, the 'Lady Blunt' was sold at a record-breaking auction for an astonishing $15.9 million, making it the most expensive musical instrument ever sold at the time. This sale not only highlighted the instrument’s incredible preservation and the esteem associated with Stradivarius violins but also shed light on the high value collectors place on rare and antique musical instruments. Each Stradivarius instrument is unique, but the 'Lady Blunt' is particularly distinguished by its nearly untouched state, providing a valuable snapshot of how the original instruments looked and sounded when they first left Stradivari's workshop.
The sale of the 'Lady Blunt' was managed by Tarisio Auctions, and its record price reflected its rarity and impeccable condition. The proceeds of the auction were dedicated to the Nippon Music Foundation’s efforts to support the victims of the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami, adding a philanthropic dimension to this historic transaction. Collectors and museums around the world continue to recognize the immense cultural and monetary value of such extraordinary instruments, preserving a critical part of musical heritage for future generations while also using their allure to support modern-day causes.
