'Lord Wilton' Guarneri del Gesù: quick facts
The 'Lord Wilton' is a violin made in 1742 by Giuseppe Guarneri 'del Gesù', a contemporary and rival of Stradivari in Cremona. It takes its name from an English aristocratic owner, the Earl of Wilton. The instrument is best known in the modern era for having belonged to the violinist Yehudi Menuhin, who played it for many years. Though this site centres on Stradivari, the del Gesù violins belong to the same Cremonese tradition and are equally prized by leading soloists. The 'Lord Wilton' is admired for the rich, dark tone typical of del Gesù's mature work, and it remains one of the most documented examples.
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.