Anton Posch was a pivotal figure in the history of violin making, often credited as the founder of the Viennese school of violin craftsmanship. Born in Vils in 1677, he trained under Matthias Fuchs before moving to Vienna in 1706. By 1721, he was appointed luthier to the Royal Court, a prestigious role that underscored his exceptional skill.

Posch’s instruments are known for their high-quality craftsmanship, often following the Stainer pattern, and are marked with a distinctive double-headed eagle on the upper back. His son, Anton Stefan, continued his legacy after his death in 1742, though he only survived his father by seven years.

The present violin is likely made by the hand of father and son Although it is by no means in mint condition the instrument has seen many performances and likely pleased many listeners. The saying “do not judge a book by its cover” applies in spades here. This violin is a real powerhouse and outplays most of the violins even for hundreds of thousands of dollars. It is a real sleeper and Posch a great Viennese maker whose instruments are in fact very rare.