Violin 1800 - 1889

This violin was made by the Chukchi people, using wood and sinew. It’s clearly based on a European model, but what’s fascinating here is the way that the makers have adapted their own resources and skills to the task. The instrument has a sturdy, almost primitive quality. The tool marks are clearly visible, and the proportions have a simplified quality, not as refined as a factory-made instrument. The labor that went into this piece reflects a resourceful approach to materials and construction, shaped by the demands and possibilities of life in the Arctic. Rather than a commercial transaction, the violin probably represents a cultural exchange – a translation from one set of making traditions to another. It testifies to the globalization of culture, and also the persistence of local knowledge and values. Ultimately, this violin is a testament to human ingenuity and the power of making to connect people across cultures.