This full size violin is a copy of Maggini (a maker from Bresica Italy who lived between the years of 1580 to 1630). Maggini is famous for his decorative designs with purfling. This violin, being a copy, matches designs made by the original maker. You can see there are two purfling channels along the front and back of the instrument. On the back, the second row of purfling flowers out into a wonderful and traditional design. The top of the instrument has been carved from Italian spruce. The grain is medium fine, being finest at the edges and widening out as it reaches the center of the instrument. The back, ribs, neck and scroll are all made of medium-bold flamed maple. The scroll especially is finely craved. The bridge is made of spotted maple from France, the brand being Aubert. It has been hand carved by a luthier to match all of the necessary measurements, which ensures ease of use and fantastic sound. The fittings, as well as the fingerboard, are made of ebony. The strings that are currently on the instrument are Dominant strings. The ground varnish is a light amber, while the top varnish is a red brown. It has been polished to a gloss finish. A lot of effort has been put into the antiquing of this violin. Beautiful and carefully placed marks have been placed on the instrument to simulate years of wear and tear that presents itself on 300 year old instruments. The antiquing process is not only pleasing to the eye, but has wonderful effects on the sound as well. The sound is strong and even. It projects very well. The elongated F-holes and long pattern of the instrument help force sound out of the instrument into the air. It would be perfect for concert halls. It is also suitable for chamber music. This instrument has spent it's entire life in a violin shop, where it has been the subject of care and adjustment to ensure the best sound possible.