The Lost Stradivarius · Chapter
VII explained
John Maltravers discovers a hidden violin in a secret cupboard, which he suspects to be a genuine Stradivarius.
What happens
John Maltravers discovers a hidden violin in a secret cupboard, which he suspects to be a genuine Stradivarius. He cleans it, compares it to his Pressenda, and finds the label 'Antonius Stradiuarius Cremonensis faciebat, 1704.' He conceals the discovery from his friend Mr. Gaskell and his servant, then takes the violin to London to consult the expert Mr. George Smart, who confirms it is a genuine and exceptionally fine Stradivarius. John begins to consider the question of ownership, realizing the College might have a claim to the instrument.
Themes in this chapter
Obsession and Possession
John's excitement and secrecy over the violin, and his later concern about rightful ownership, highlight the theme of possession and its moral implications.
Music as a Dangerous Force
The violin, an instrument of music, becomes a source of intense personal excitement and potential conflict, suggesting its powerful and possibly dangerous influence.
The Power of the Past
The discovery of the long-hidden violin, with its mysterious history, demonstrates how the past can intrude upon and shape the present.
Characters to notice
- John Maltravers
Discovers the Stradivarius violin in a hidden cupboard, conceals it from others, and seeks expert appraisal in London.
- Mr. Gaskell
Visits John after the discovery, inspects the cupboard, and speculates about its former occupant, but is not told about the violin.
- Mr. George Smart
The London dealer and expert who authenticates the violin as a genuine Stradivarius of the golden period.
- Mr. Thoresby
John's guardian, who had purchased the Pressenda violin from Mr. Smart.
Key passages
“John was excited at his discovery, and felt his thoughts confused in a manner that I have often experienced myself on the unexpected receipt of news interesting me deeply, whether for pleasure or pain.”
John was thrilled by his find, his mind racing as it would upon receiving surprising news, whether good or bad.
Describes John's initial emotional reaction to the discovery.
“His heart leapt with a violent pulsation as he read the characters, 'Antonius Stradiuarius Cremonensis faciebat, 1704.'”
His heart pounded violently when he read the label indicating it was made by Stradivarius in 1704.
The moment of realization that the violin is a genuine Stradivarius.
“Mr. Smart received Sir John Maltravers with deference, demanded in what way he could serve him; and on hearing that his opinion was required on the authenticity of a violin, smiled somewhat dubiously and led the way into a back parlour.”
Mr. Smart greeted John respectfully, but was skeptical when asked to authenticate a violin, and took him to a private room.
Mr. Smart's initial skepticism about the violin's authenticity.
“This violin is of the great master’s golden period, is incontestably genuine, and finer in some respects than any Stradivarius that I have ever seen, not even excepting the famous ‘Dolphin’ itself.”
This violin is from Stradivarius's best era, unquestionably authentic, and in some ways superior to any I've seen, including the famous 'Dolphin'.
Mr. Smart's enthusiastic authentication of the violin.