Violin by Antonio Stradivari “Lam; Ex-Scotland University”

This exceptional-sounding and looking instrument was crafted in the final years of Stradivari's life, at the peak of his maturity, exhibiting his best attributes and strongest character. The f-holes are slightly tilted, elegantly crossing the generous curve of the central arching of the top and showing perhaps the hand of his son Francesco as well. The strong and perfectly round-shaped edges frame the whole body of the violin, giving special glamour to the instrument’s attractive broad curls of its single-piece back, cradling within itself all the beauty of the traditional Stradivarian strong golden ground color and red-brown varnish of silky, yet translucent, texture.

The back is made of quarter-cut maple, and the arching extends fully to the edges, adding to this masterpiece's strong personality. An original wing was added to the lower treble flank. The ribs are crafted from wood similar to the back, while the head, also maple, has a different grain. The two-piece belly is made of spruce, finely grained at the center and widening towards the flanks.

The name "Scotland University" originates from one of its previous owners, Mr. George D. N. Neill of Drumlea, Greenock, in Scotland's West-Central Lowlands, who bequeathed it to a Scottish university. In the late 19th century, the violin was acquired by an English amateur player named Heath, who sold it to Hill in London in 1873. They subsequently found Mr. G. D. N. Neill. Neill left instructions in his will to have the instrument and several others handed down to the university, which later sold the instruments to fund a scholarship.

In 1948, renowned New York violinist Frank Gullino purchased the instrument from Hills. Between 1963 and 1968, the violin passed through the Rembert Wurlitzer shop multiple times. In June 1972, the 'Scotland University' was acquired by Chinese entrepreneur, amateur violinist and patron of the arts, Sau-Wing Lam, and is now part of the prestigious Sau-This remarkable violin, crafted during the final years of Stradivari's life, showcases his maturity and unmistakable artistry. The gently tilted f-holes cross the graceful arching of the top, hinting at the touch of his son Francesco. Its bold, round edges frame a stunning single-piece back of broad maple curls, bathed in a golden ground and topped with a silky red-brown varnish. The violin’s rich history includes its stewardship by notable musicians and collectors, and it currently inspires performances in the hands of virtuoso Giuseppe Gibboni.Wing Lam Collection.

Since 2023, the violin has been the faithful companion of Giuseppe Gibboni, on loan through Classically Connected, Inc.