We are pleased to offer this fine violin crafted by violin maker Arvids Berkis for examination, trial and purchase.
Instrument Type: Violin
Year: 1948
Price: $4,900.00
Maker: Arvids Berkis
Dimensions: Back Length: 35.2 cm
The Violin
A beautiful and unique violin by Latvian musician and violin maker Arvīds Berķis, dated 1948.The two-piece back is fashioned from plain American maple, while the two-piece spruce top displays broad, open grain. American woods were used throughout the instrument.
Particularly distinctive are the violin’s Latvian decorative elements. Traditional motifs appear on the heel and eyes of the scroll as well as on the button of the back, giving the instrument a strong connection to Berķis’s Latvian heritage. A Latvian folk song is also inscribed on the interior of the back, making this a particularly personal example of his work.
The violin remains in very good condition.
The Maker
Arvīds Berķis (1906–1974) was a Latvian conductor, French horn player, and violin maker. He studied at the Latvian Conservatoire and worked as an orchestral and choral conductor before fleeing Latvia during World War II. While living in Germany, Berķis studied the art of violin making with German craftsmen. He later emigrated with his family to Portland, Oregon, where he founded the Portland Latvian Choir in 1950 and served as its conductor for 24 years. His instruments reflect an unusual combination of craftsmanship, musicianship, and a deep connection to Latvian cultural traditions.
Terms of Sale
This fine violin is available for examination, trial and sale and has been meticulously set up to our exacting specifications before addition to our catalog. If you wish to inquire further about this violin, please contact us using the green button at the top of this listing or call 1-818-762-1374 during business hours.