An exact copy of Stradivari’s ‘Messiah’, it remained in a vault in Paris for more than 70 years
The Canada Council for the Arts is the country’s public arts funder. Through its programme of grants, services, prizes and payments, it supports and promotes the nation’s arts scene both across Canada and internationally. The Strad Calendar 2025 marks the 40th anniversary of the founding of its Musical Instrument Bank by showcasing twelve of the finest instruments in its collection.
1871 Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume violin
This violin is an exact copy of the ‘Messiah’, possibly the most famous instrument ever made by Antonio Stradivari. Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume (1798–1875) acquired the ‘Messiah’ in 1855 and guarded it jealously, keeping it in a glass case so that no one could touch it. He made several copies, always using top-quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship, and this 1871 example is no exception. It bears Vuillaume’s signature on the inside of the back upper bout, as well as his number and brand stamp.
The violin remained in a vault in Paris for more than 70 years until it was discovered by the New York violin dealer Jacques Francais and brought to the US. Francais attributed its exceptional condition in part to its long period of internment. More recently, in 2001, it was rescued from a house fire in which the owner lost all other personal belongings.
Like the original ‘Messiah’, the violin has a two-piece back of exceptional maple with flame descending from the centre joint on both sides. The ribs and scroll are of matching materials, and the chamfers are blackened, as on the original. The two-piece top is of excellent spruce of medium-width grain, widening somewhat at the flanks. The maker has slightly antiqued the reddish-brown varnish over a golden ground. It is currently played by David Baik.
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Photos: Donna Santos Studio
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The Canada Council of the Arts’ Musical Instrument Bank is 40 years old in 2025. This year’s calendar celebrates some its treasures, including four instruments by Antonio Stradivari and priceless works by Montagnana, Gagliano, Pressenda and David Tecchler.
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