A 311-year-old Stradivarius violin sold for $11.25 million at Sotheby’s auction in New York, attracting significant interest from collectors and musicians alike. The instrument, crafted by Antonio Stradivari in 1714, was initially expected to fetch between $12 million and $18 million, yet it still achieved one of the highest prices for a musical instrument sold at auction.

The violin, known as the Joachim-Ma Stradivarius, has an illustrious history, having been previously owned by the influential 19th-century violinist Joseph Joachim, who was closely associated with composer Johannes Brahms. This connection significantly enhances the violin’s provenance and value.

The final sale price includes auction house fees, with bidding beginning at $8 million and quickly escalating to $10 million, before concluding without further bids. Remarkably, the buyer has chosen to remain anonymous, and despite the lower result, the sale is seen as highly successful in terms of its historical and cultural significance.

Previously, the violin was a gift to the New England Conservatory by the estate of alumnus Si-Hon Ma after his death in 2009. The proceeds from the sale are earmarked to establish student scholarships, highlighting the institution’s commitment to fostering future talent in classical music.

Andrea Kalyn, president of the conservatory, expressed that the sale represents "a transformational opportunity for future students," and it is anticipated that the funds raised will create the largest named endowed scholarship at the conservatory.

While this sale did not break the record held by the Lady Blunt Stradivarius, which sold for $15.9 million in 2011, it still underscores the ongoing desirability and value of Stradivarius instruments in today’s market.

For more details on this auction, you can visit Jakarta Post.