This Sotheby’s auction catalogue documents the sale held on 22 May 1980 in London, focusing on highly important classical musical instruments. It includes detailed listings of string instruments such as violins, violas, violoncellos, and viola da gambas, along with bows, keyboard instruments, and selected woodwind items. Many instruments are historically significant works by renowned makers such as Stradivari, Guarneri del Gesù, Guadagnini, Rugeri, and Vuillaume. The catalogue typically provides descriptions, provenance information, and—together with its accompanying “prices realised” section—records the auction results for collectors and researchers of fine instruments and organology.

Catalogue of Highly Important Musical Instruments - Day of Sale : Thursday, 22nd May 1980