Miniature String Instruments Appraisal

Miniature Decorative Violins with Bows

The image displays two miniature violins, each accompanied by a bow, presented alongside a ruler for scale. The violins appear to be decorative or novelty items rather than functional musical instruments, indicated by their diminutive size and the general craftsmanship seen. One violin (left) has a lighter, reddish-brown, glossy finish, suggesting a varnished wood construction, possibly maple or spruce, typical of larger violins, but on a smaller scale. It features black tuning pegs, a black fingerboard, and a black tailpiece. The f-holes are clearly visible, and the bridge is present, though no strings are apparent. The accompanying bow is simple and slender. The second violin (right) has a darker, more rustic appearance with a visible wood grain, possibly walnut or a similarly darker wood, and a less polished finish. Its design is more ornate or distressed, featuring carved details on the scroll and what appears to be a broader bridge. The tuning pegs are also dark. The f-holes are present, but the overall construction seems less refined than the lighter violin. The bow accompanying this darker violin also appears more substantial, with distinctive carving near the frog. Both items show some signs of wear consistent with age or handling, particularly the darker violin which has a more 'aged' look. The presence of the ruler, identified as 'NORTHWEST DRYWALL', confirms their miniature scale, likely under a foot in height. While they mimic the traditional shape of violins, their small size and the lack of visible strings (on the lighter one) or functional details suggest they are primarily ornamental or collectibles, possibly from the mid to late 20th century.