Ferdinand Joseph Homolka was one of the most talented craftsmen in a multi-generational family of Czech violin makers. Of the first generation, Ferdinand trained with his older brother, Emmanuel, who himself learned from noted Czech maker Caspar Strnad. Ferdinand then worked in Novy Bydzov, a town about 100 kilometers east of Prague, from 1837.

Our violin, created on an attractive personal model, dates from that same year. It remains in excellent condition and boasts a robust tone that resonates well throughout the concert hall. It would be ideal for the musician seeking the sound of a much older instrument at a modest price.