Musical string instruments: Potential and limitations of tree-ring dating and provenancing to verify their authenticity

Authenticity is the prime factor affecting market value of a work art. String instruments are among most valued works art, particularly those made by old violin-making masters northern Italy in late 17th and early 18th centuries. However, it difficult to verify authenticity string on basis style design alone, as these often copied or forged. Uncertainties related craftsmanship can lead financial legal controversy, sometimes with even millions dollars at stake. The Stradivari “Messiah” has long been disputed. Controversies end 1990s concerning its have enhanced interest dating this violin. After different dendrochronological analyses provided conflicting tree-ring dates for front violin, scientifically-sound study eventually established 1682 terminus post quem, i.e., year when last ring violin was formed, before which could not made. This date consistent attributed manufacture, 1716, supporting Antonio maker “Messiah”. controversial sent shockwaves through community. Here, we present main facts played role controversy show how dangerous use dendrochronology be if investigators do adhere well-established techniques versed scholars literature. Such controversies threaten reputation dendrochronology. Today, many false theories conceptual mistakes continue circulate A thorough analysis wood used make instrument only that objectively indicate, exact an made, least certainly describe importance, terms acoustics, anatomical characteristics possible geographical provenance. We review studies undertaken assess Italian masters. help establish earliest tree from taken felled, determine source region wood. achievements challenges arisen past 50 years studying instruments, discuss limitations advantages using methods provenance time period art created. Finally, needs research history, anatomy dendrochronology, proposing several new may open up avenues aid assessment instruments.