The Guarnerius del Ges violin known as the David was built in Cremona in 1742. In the nineteenth century, it was owned by the famed violin master Ferdinand David and has since carried his name. It was purchased by Jascha Heifetz in 1922 and he played it for over 50 years. In 1989 what is widely regarded as one of the world's finest violins came into the permanent collection of the Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco as a bequest from Heifetz. It was the donor's wish that the Davids vibrancy is maintained by being played on special occasions by worthy performers. its use is now overseen by the museum's music advisory task force. Finish: solid brass, electro-plated with gold, giclee print. Packaged Recycled PETE Plastic Sleeve with Provenance Card