The Violin
On the surface, there was nothing special about that particular violin. Manufactured in Germany in 1880, there were probably hundreds of others just like it lying about in dusty attics, scraped on by beginning virtuosos or occasionally but more rarely, cherished by seasoned veterans of music. Its appearance was pleasing, but its history unimpressive.
Peering through the f stops did not reveal a label identifying it as the craftsmanship of a famous master Luthier, so it was overlooked, underappreciated and categorized as a mediocre instrument. It took the discriminating gaze of Sherlock Holmes to notice the smooth flamed maple body and a fine belly grain that was deep orangey brown. His fingers carefully caressed the rich patina that came only from years of use. Someone had loved this instrument very much.
He carefully took it down from its rack and adjusted the keys slightly while tuning it softly. The clerk tried to interest him in other more prestigious violins, but he shook his head and placed the old violin under his chin. He raised his bow and began to draw it over the strings. From the first note, he knew he had found his choice. The low notes were deep, rich and mellow, the high notes flute-like and pure.
A hush filled the shop as he shifted into Partita no.1 by Bach.
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A/N - Discription of Sherlock's violin is from Sherlockolgy.
Luthier – A master craftsman of stringed instruments