A colleague was looking to sell this old double violin case and bought it into the workshop.

It was made for two 7/8 size violins probably around 1800 or earlier. There was no padding inside, just lined in thin blue felt. The outside was covered in leather with metal studs and fitted with a solid brass lock and handle. The case weighed several kilos! It was not designed for a busy modern musician. Rather it was more of a safe storage place for violins or for traveling perhaps by horse and coach.

Since it was only made for 7/8 size violins I really couldn’t justify buying it. Though it was interesting to see and reminded me how much lighter and safer modern cases have become!