This remarkable photo captures the interior of the first violin I successfully photographed. Initially, it was presented to me as a Hopf, but I believe it is actually a 19th-century replica. The craftsmanship details, such as the bass bar and the simple neck joint, reveal this. The Hopf family, a large group of makers dating back to the 18th century (or perhaps earlier), usually produced distinctive models that are quite rare. Over time, a more squarish shape evolved, and the surrounding violin trade began stamping many cottage industry instruments with Hopf stamps.

By the mid-19th century, many squarish model "Hopfs" were produced, which are the most commonly seen today. These instruments are not true copies of earlier Hopfs but rather a result of trade evolution. This particular violin has been played but never repaired or opened since its creation, a rarity for an instrument of this age. This photograph marks the first time anyone has seen the inside of this violin.