The Salabue Stradivari : A history and critical description of the famous violin, commonly called "le Messie"

This volume offers a meticulous portrait of one of the most celebrated violins ever made, the 1716 Stradivari known as “Le Messie.” Drawing on previously unpublished documents and vivid colour plates, the author guides listeners through the instrument’s remarkable journey—from its careful acquisition by an 18th‑century aristocrat to its hidden years in a secluded Italian farm. The narrative balances scholarly detail with a genuine reverence for the violin’s unparalleled sound and beauty.

Rooted in more than fifty years of family craft and bolstered by the research of Cremona’s foremost experts, the book dissects the violin’s construction, varnish, and tonal qualities with clarity and insight. It also places the instrument within the broader context of Stradivari’s work, correcting long‑standing myths and offering trustworthy data for today’s musicians and collectors. Listeners will come away with a deeper appreciation of this singular masterpiece and the rich heritage it embodies.