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I have a violin which has a label reading "School of Samuel Gilkes, London, about 1825" a second label says N-341 or N-34-1 or I. Is there any value to this instrument and how would I go about fuinding a reputable appraiser?
Already Tried: Nothing
This could be a fairly valuable violin, as you may know Samuel Gilkes instruments sell for high sums and a piece by "the school of Samuel Gilkes" from this date would hold weight as well. Where are you located? The only way to appraise a violin is onsite so finding someone near your location is key. Dori
Fort Worth Texas
Do you need more information?
Your closest option would seem to be Heritage Auctions as they do have open appraisal days specific to string instruments but their specialty is more so guitars but they do handle violins as well and fetch fine sums for them.
They can be found at www.ha.com but here is their schedule of events in case this would be of interest. They have days in Fort Worth and Dallas over the summer but you may want to make an appointment and meet with a specialist. Call and see what suits you. http://www.ha.com/c/ref/events-calendar.zx?ic=rightcolumn-events-050509
Other options for apprasial and sales of string instruments in the region are below. I have scoured for a reputable instrument appraiser but Texas just does not have indivduals that specialize in the area so auction houses are your best bet. They often will do a free visual..especially if you are in the market to sell but call and see which suits you if you are in either of these areas. I offered a distant third because they are such a good auction house incase you happen to be going that direction but I know these are all a bit of a drive.
Miles Autry Auctioneers Inc3425 B West Kingsley
Garland , Texas
75041
00 1(NNN) NNN-NNNN/p>
Fax : 00 1(NNN) NNN-NNNN/p>
Website : http://www.milesautryauctioneers.com/
Austin Auction Gallery
8414 Anderson Mill Road
Austin , Texas
Fax : +1(NNN) NNN-NNNN/p>
Website : http://www.austinauction.com
Morton Kuehnert Auctioneers & Appraisers4901 Richmond Avenue
Houston , Texas77027
Website : http://www.mortonkuehnert.com
Experience: Curator of Major Historical Museum Collections for 20+ Yrs
PS I dont know if it was clear but all of these houses do handle violins. I suspected that you would understand that but email is tricky and I like to be clear, in case there is any question. Dori