A Stradivarius violin once owned by legendary violinist Joseph Joachim is set to be auctioned at Sotheby's in New York on February 7th, with an estimated price tag of $12 to $18 million. This could potentially break the record for the highest price ever paid for a musical instrument at auction.
The violin, crafted in 1714, is believed to have been used in the world premiere of Johannes Brahms' Violin Concerto in 1879. Joachim, a close friend of Brahms, even helped shape the piece, suggesting changes to enhance its soloistic impact.
Joachim acquired the instrument in 1850, describing it as "a magnificent Stradivarius" and expressing immense joy at owning such a prized possession. The violin has since been passed down through generations and is now poised to find a new home.