'Duport' Stradivarius cello: quick facts
The 'Duport' is a Stradivari cello made in 1711, during the golden period. It is named after Jean-Louis Duport, the French cellist who helped establish modern cello technique and who owned the instrument. In the 20th century it was played for many years by the great cellist Mstislav Rostropovich. The 'Duport' is regarded as one of the finest and most valuable cellos in the world, reflecting how rare and sought after Stradivari's cellos are. Far fewer cellos than violins survive from his workshop, which makes documented golden-period examples like this especially important to players and collectors alike.
Sources: Tarisio — Cozio Archive of stringed instruments; Library of Congress — Stradivari instruments / Whittall Collection; The Metropolitan Museum of Art — musical instruments collection; Smithsonian — National Music Museum / NMAH string instruments. Educational information only — not financial, investment, or appraisal advice. See our sources & fact-check policy.