Premsyl Otakar Spidlen
Prague, 1920–2010
Premsyl Otakar SPIDLEN (1920-2010) was a highly influential 20th-century Czech luthier, son and successor to Otakar Spidlen. He was renowned for his immaculate workmanship, dedication to replicating Stradivari and Guarneri models, and significant contributions to plate tuning and acoustical manipulation. He completed over 250 instruments and received multiple international awards, continuing his family's legacy through his son Jan.
Auction Price History
Highest auction price
11 results
| Type | Details | Auction house | Sold | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violin | 35.6 cm 1930 c. Workshop of & probably by | — | June 2009 | £4,260 |
| Violin | Prague, 1981 | — | November 2005 | £11,843 |
| Cello | Prague, 1961 | — | October 2005 | £10,183 |
| Viola | 40.5 cm Prague, 1961 #119 | — | March 2004 | £3,227 |
| Violin | 1976 | — | September 2001 | £8,625 |
| Violin | 1955 | — | March 1999 | £4,600 |
| Violin | 1983 | — | March 1995 | £5,175 |
| Violin | 1980 | — | March 1995 | £3,450 |
| Violin | 1980 | — | January 1992 | £3,740 |
| Violin | 1983 | — | November 1991 | £4,950 |
| Violin | 1977 | — | November 1988 | £12,650 |
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Maker Overview
Life
Premsyl Otakar SPIDLEN (1920-2010) was born in Prague, Czech Republic, and was the son, pupil, and successor of Otakar Spidlen. He was a highly influential maker of the 20th century, devoting great care and attention to replicating the work of Stradivari and Guarneri. According to The Brompton's Book of Violin & Bow Makers by John Dilworth, he was much influenced by current theories of plate tuning and acoustical manipulation, to which he contributed greatly from his own research and experience. He completed over 250 violins, violas, and cellos. He was succeeded by his son Jan, born in 1967.
Characteristics
- Workmanship
- His workmanship was immaculate and accurate in every regard.
- Materials & Varnish
- He used the finest materials and a rich shaded golden-red varnish, which was lightly and sensitively aged.
- Premysl Otakar Špidlen
Faciebat Pragae Anno 19..John Dilworth
Influence and legacy
- Mentorship: He was the son, pupil, and successor of Otakar Spidlen.
- Theoretical Contributions: He was much influenced by current theories of plate tuning and acoustical manipulation, to which he contributed greatly from his own research and experience.
- Awards: He was awarded medals at the Hague in 1947, Liege in 1960, and Poznan in 1962 and 1967.
- Family Continuity: He was succeeded by his son Jan, born in 1967.
Biographies
The overview above is drawn from the following published accounts. Read them in the original:
John Dilworth+
SPIDLEN, Premsyl Otakar Born 1920, d.2010 Prague Czech Republic. Son, pupil, and successor of Otakar Spidlen, above. Highly influential maker of the 20th century. Devoted great care and attention to replicating the work of Stradivari and Guarneri. Much influenced by current theories of plate tuning and acoustical manipulation, to which he contributed greatly from his own research and experience. Workmanship was immaculate and accurate in every regard. Completed over 250 violins, violas, and cellos. Medals awarded at the Hague 1947, Liege 1960, and Poznan 1962 and 1967. Finest materials and rich shaded golden-red varnish, lightly and sensitively aged. Succeeded by his son Jan (Born 1967). Premysl Otakar Špidlen / Faciebat Pragae Anno 19..
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