Benedicte Friedmann - Violin Antonio Stradivari "Il Toscano"

Luthier: Bénédicte Friedmann
Model: Violin Antonio Stradivari "Il Toscano"
Year of construction: 2026


This Violin has the following certificates:
- Certificate of Luthier
- Certificate of Consorzio Liutai Antonio Stradivari, Cremona

The Tradition of Cremona and Sonic Excellence in an Exceptional Instrument

We are delighted to present this magnificent new violin by the prestigious luthier Bénédicte Friedmann, inspired by Antonio Stradivari’s historic “Il Toscano” model, one of the most representative creations of the great Cremonese master.

This instrument combines the elegance of the Italian tradition with highly refined craftsmanship and a rich, nuanced tonal character. Every detail reflects meticulous attention to proportions, wood selection, carving and finishing, seeking the perfect balance between beauty, acoustic response and expressiveness.

“Il Toscano”: The Legacy of Antonio Stradivari

Built in 1690, the original “Il Toscano” violin belongs to a pivotal period in Antonio Stradivari’s artistic development. Following the initial influence of Nicolò Amati, the master began to develop his own distinctive style, exploring new proportions and construction techniques that would lay the foundations for his celebrated instruments of the Golden Period.

The “Toscano” is an outstanding example of this evolution, featuring a generously proportioned yet well-balanced design, conceived to combine a commanding sound with tonal richness and expressive depth. Its historical significance lies precisely in its representation of this transitional period, when Stradivari was consolidating his own vision of the violin, bringing together formal elegance and acoustic ambition.

A Rich, Warm and Expressive Voice

The tonal character of this model reflects the pursuit of a rich, balanced sound, with depth in the lower register, warmth in the middle register and luminous, brilliant highs. Its tonal complexity offers a wide palette of colours and nuances, ranging from the delicacy of the most intimate passages to the intensity of the most demanding expressive moments.

Its sensitive response and ability to develop a distinctive voice make this violin particularly appealing to musicians seeking an expressive instrument with character and a strong connection to the player.

The Cremonese Tradition, Alive Today

With this new creation, Bénédicte Friedmann pays tribute to the great Cremonese school, reinterpreting a historic model through a contemporary approach to craftsmanship. The result is an instrument that brings together the inspiration of Antonio Stradivari and the demands of today’s musicians.

This extraordinary Bénédicte Friedmann violin, based on Antonio Stradivari’s “Il Toscano” model, offers a unique opportunity to discover the legacy of great Italian violin making and experience an instrument conceived to inspire and enrich musical expression.