TheStradivarius violinis one of the most sought after melodic instruments in the humankind , with pieces fetching one thousand thousand at auction . A newfangled track record may shortly be broken , in part because of 1939’sThe Wizard of Oz — and that amount is to the tune of $ 20 million .
The association with the classic film is just one of the reasons the fiddle is so desirable . Officially known as “ da Vinci , Ex - Seidel , ” the cat’s-paw was crafted in 1714 by Antonio Stradivari and after owned by famed fiddler Toscha Seidel [ PDF ] . It ’s survived in excellent condition , making it probable to exceed the previous sales record book of $ 15.9 million set for a Stradivarius in 2011 .
Seidel buy the fiddle in 1924 for $ 25,000 , performing with it for decades in orchestras and on radio set , and even playact as a euphony teacher for Albert Einstein . Seidel also contributed to the grade for a number of films , include 1939’sIntermezzoand 1938’sThe Great Waltz . Because Seidel was under contract bridge with MGM , the studio behindOz , it ’s wide believe he performed for that plastic film ’s score , including for the seminal “ Somewhere Over the Rainbow . ”
“ Antonio Stradivari is the greatest violin maker of all time ; it is our terrible pleasance to present this cat’s-paw , whose exquisite articulation still speaks to us through many classical recording and flick score performed by the uncomparable Toscha Seidel , ” Carlos Tome , Director at the Tarisio vendue house , said . “ We can only imagine the boot that this pawn has render for countless musicians and audiences over the century . We are thankful to have the privilege of find the next proprietor for this exceptional instrument , and to continue its know bequest . ”
Tarisio will offer the da - Vinci , Ex - Seidel on Thursday , June 9 , where it ’s expected to betray for $ 16 million to $ 20 million .
[ h / tVariety ]
