ABOUT US
STRING HAUS is a newly established company (2026), partnering with luthiers in the Czech Republic to restore and offer master-quality string instruments to musicians. Our mission is centered on sourcing and rehabilitating valuable historical instruments, blending modern restoration techniques with the time-honored craftsmanship of previous generations.
We believe that the reputation of older string instruments tends to sit in an awkward middle ground – often due to misattribution given only to instruments by world-renowned masters (Stradivari, Guarneri, Stainer, etc). Therefore, we place importance on hand-crafted instruments that are not as common and that produce outstanding results in sound quality. Every instrument has the option of a certificate of appraisal.
“My mission is to bring attention to older string instruments that are meant to be played, not stored away in cases for decades until they are finally noticed.” – Benjamin Kotik, founder of STRING HAUS
LISTINGS
Our instruments are listed in three separate pricing categories:
Category A: $10,000+ (Click here to directly go to category A)
Category B: $4,500-10,000 (Click here to directly go to category B)
Category C: $1,000-4,500 (Click here to directly go to category C)
Our selection of bows are coming soon on our website.
Each listing has a description, measurements, sound demonstration, and pricing. To schedule a consultation, click below.
category a
JOHANNES EBERLE VIOLIN 1756
Eberle’s instruments are known for their unique blend of Stainer and Cremonese influences; higher arching and smooth transitions around the edges of the body of the instrument. In addition, Eberle’s instruments are distinct for their red-brown varnish, which over time can age into a golden-brown patina.
CAROLUS HELLMER VIOLIN 1765
Carolus Hellmer’s instruments closely resemble those of Eberle, reflecting influences from both Jacob Stainer and the Cremonese tradition. Perhaps the most distinctive feature of this instrument is the presence of small circular carvings on the back plate, commonly referred to by Czech luthiers as švestková povidla (“plum jam”).
JOSEF METELKA VIOLIN 1876
This violin is a late work by Josef Metelka, in which both Stainer and Cremonese influences are clearly evident. Flatter arching that gently descends toward the edges is characteristic of many of the finest Czech makers of the period and contributes to the instrument’s excellent projection.
Jan F. Veselý Viola da gamba
Hand-crafted 7-string viola da gamba by Jan Veselý. Amber finish, fitted with a combination of silver-wound and gut strings.
category B
Andreas Fischer violin 1865
This instrument is one of the few known surviving works by Andreas Fischer, and possibly the only one preserved in this condition. The selection of spruce on its front plate and sycamore maple on its back plate contributes to both a lighter instrument and a rich tonal character.
A. PAnkau violin 1905 [Glaesel and Herwig]
A. Pankau was possibly a repairer of string instruments between the late 1800s/early 1900s, who most-likely completed the creation of this 4/4 violin. His signature as well as a Glaesel and Herwig label is imprinted onto the back plate, suggesting that the wood of the instrument originated in the 1870s.
category C
Jul. Heinr. Zimmermann 1902
Although this instrument was not handcrafted by a renowned individual maker like the other instruments in our collection, its craftsmanship and tonal quality rival those of many violins made by celebrated luthiers. Numerous features indicate that it was built with exceptional precision and attention to detail.
