Most instruments are based on patterns developed by historic and prominent makers. The roots of the modern violin can be traced back to the sixteenth century with historic makers Gasparo da Salo, Giovanni Paola Maggini, and Andrea Amati. Their work developed the proportions and design that most closely resembles the modern violin. Notable proteges include makers from the Guarneri family and, of course, Antonio Stradivari. Their creations further refined the modern violin and established Cremona as the center of violin making. See below for common patterns used in instrument making today.

Why isn't a Stradivarius copy worth as much as a Stradivarius?
Authentic instruments made by Stradivari will always be more expensive as it is his work that established the design. In addition, Stradivari chose fine examples of spruce and maple and is known for his great attention to detail when crafting an instrument. The historic importance and fine craftsmanship of the great makers from the sixteenth through the eighteenth centuries make their instruments some of the most highly valued and sought after instruments in the world. For most people, these instruments are not in an affordable price range. Fortunately, there are many affordable copies available of excellent quality. Check out our Scott Cao collection for examples of instruments based on Guarneri "del Gesu", Gasparo da Salo, and G.B. Guadagnini patterns.

At first glance all the following instrument patterns appear to look the same, but upon closer examination, stylistic differences become apparent between maker patterns. Pay close attention to details of the corners, f-hole design, and body style of each pattern.

Notice the pronounced corners of Antonio Stradivari's pattern and then the less pronounced corners of the two Guarneri instruments. Also look at f-hole treatment. The Maggini instrument displays almost vertical f-holes with upper and lower holes of almost the same size, while the Stradivarius pattern has gracefully cut f-holes with upper and lower holes of different size. The Amati and Andrea Guarneri instruments are both slender patterns, especially in the c-bout. In contrast, the Guadagnini instrument is a very wide model with a greater distance between c-bouts and a relatively large upper bout that is nearly as wide as the lower bout.

Antonio Stradivari - P Mold	Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesu
G. B. Guadagnini(Viola)	Giovanni Paolo Maggini
Andrea Guarneri	Andrea Amati