H. Ries 30 Elementary Violin Studies Op. 28 - Schirmer's Library Appraisal
Category: Sheet Music Book
Description
The item is a vintage sheet music book titled "Schirmer's Library - H. Ries 30 Elementary Violin Studies Op. 28". The cover is a light tan paper with a dark green decorative border featuring a repeating leaf or feather motif. The title and author information are printed in dark green within a decorative cartouche-like frame in the center of the cover. The paper is showing signs of age, with yellowing and some creasing. The edges of the cover are worn and slightly torn in places. There appears to be some writing or stamping in faded ink on the right side of the cover, likely a previous owner's mark or library stamp, but it is largely illegible in the image. The binding appears to be a saddle stitch or similar simple binding along the left edge. The overall condition suggests significant use and age. The design and typography indicate a publication date likely in the late 19th or early 20th century, consistent with the typical appearance of music published by G. Schirmer.
Appraisal Report
Upon visual examination of the provided image, I assess this H. Ries 30 Elementary Violin Studies Op. 28, Schirmer's Library edition, as being in significantly used vintage condition. The cover shows considerable age, with prominent yellowing, creases, edge wear, and small tears. Faded ink markings suggest prior ownership or library use. The simple binding appears intact but exhibits wear consistent with age and use. Authenticity appears likely for a period G. Schirmer publication of this title based on the design, typography, and wear pattern, though definitively dating it to the late 19th or early 20th century without further information or physical inspection is an estimate. This particular study book, exercises by H. Ries, while standard repertoire, is not inherently rare. Schirmer's Library editions were produced in large quantities. Vintage sheet music like this falls into a niche market primarily composed of musicians, collectors of music ephemera, and those interested in historical music education materials. Market demand for used copies of this specific work is driven by its practical use as a study aid rather than its collectible rarity. Factors significantly impacting value are its condition, which is poor, and the lack of any apparent historical significance or notable provenance (beyond the illegible ownership mark). While vintage sheet music can hold value, this item's condition severely limits its appeal to serious collectors. Comparables for common, well-worn vintage sheet music publications typically fall into a lower value bracket. Limitations in authentication from images are significant. To fully authenticate and precisely date this item, I would require a physical examination to inspect the paper quality, printing process details, and binding construction. Examining outer pages for publication information, copyright dates, and print codes would be crucial. Researching Schirmer's publication history for this specific edition would also be necessary. Provenance documentation, if available, linking the item to a notable musician or institution, would dramatically increase its value but is not suggested by the current image. Given the condition, lack of rarity, and the nature of the item as common study material, its value is primarily utilitarian.
Appraisal Value
$5 - $15