Macdonald Viola of 1719 Bought for Over $23 Million for Berlin Philharmonic Soloist
The Macdonald viola, a Stradivarius instrument from 1719, has been purchased for more than $23 million by a foundation for the solo violist of the Berlin Philharmonic. The sale, conducted through Sotheby's, sets a new record as the most expensive string instrument ever sold. The instrument was previously owned by the Stretton Society. The acquisition raises questions about whether record prices enhance music.
Key facts
- The Macdonald viola was made in 1719 by Antonio Stradivari.
- It was purchased for over $23 million.
- The buyer is a foundation for the solo violist of the Berlin Philharmonic.
- The sale was handled by Sotheby's.
- The previous owner was the Stretton Society.
- It is the most expensive string instrument ever sold.
Entities
Artists
- Antonio Stradivari
Institutions
- Berlin Philharmonic
- Sotheby's
- Stretton Society
Locations
- Berlin
- Germany