SOLD The Messiah Stradivarius. The mere mention of it evokes images and emotions of the most famous and most controversial of all violins ever created. It is without a doubt, in the most prestine condition of any Strad. The varnish is as flawless as when Stradivari applied it in 1716. The Messiah violin is from Stradivari's golden period, when demand for his violins was greatest. Why the Messiah was never sold is a great mystery, and only adds to the legend. In its near perfect state, the Messiah ranks among the most valuable violins in the world. Famous French maker and copyist Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume brought the Messiah to prominence by copying it and challenging people to determine which violin was the Messiah and which was the copy. Rumors questioning the Messiah's authenticity are whispered to this very day. Now Cupertino Strings is proud to offer master Luca Salvadori's amazing interpretation of this legendary violin. This limited collector's edition is an absolute marvel, using both the best materials available and impeccable craftsmanship. Every last detail has been carefully considered to painstakingly recreate the feeling of the original Messiah violin. The lavishly hand carved fittings from France look as though they could have been installed by Vuillaume himself! Don't miss this once in a lifetime chance to own this limited edition masterpiece by a true Italian master. Once the last violin has been finished, the mold will be retired. For details call 408-550-3835 or email via this link. violins@cupertinostrings.com Click the tailpiece image at the left to see photos of the Messiah! SOLD Few makers in the world can compete with Luca Salvadori. His workmanship and attention to detail are almost as legendary as the Messiah violin he is interpreting. Luca's precision craftsmanship and artistic style are the hallmarks of his unique approach to violin making. Luca makes a very limited number of violins each year, so each instrument can receive his full attention and meet his exacting standards. Luca has won many international awards and his instruments are coveted worldwide. Below are some of Luca Salvadori's accomplishments. 2004 Certificate of Merit for Workmanship for violin VSA Competition Portland, USA 2000 Silver Medal for Workmanship for violin VSA Competition Fort Mitchell, USA (No Gold Awarded that year) 1999 Cittą di Baveno Competition "Pro Loco Award" violin with the highest score for workmanship. 1992 Bagnacavallo, Ravenna Bronze Medal for a violin and a cello. 1990 "Bagnacavallo Competition" Silver Medal for violin. Born in Poggio Rusco, Italy. Luca attended a Goldsmith's Art School and then in 1978 he enrolled at the International School of Violin Makers of Cremona, where he received his diploma in 1982. Since then, he has been crafting instruments of violin family inspired by the great masters of Italy.