A 284-year-old Lorenzo Carcassi violin, valued at a six-figure sum, was stolen from a pub in Canonbury, north London, leaving the music community and authorities on high alert. The instrument, crafted by the celebrated instrument maker Lorenzo Carcassi in Florence in 1740, was in the possession of David Lopez Ibanez, a Spanish violinist known for his performances with orchestras such as the London Philharmonia Orchestra. This historical violin, which has been passed down through generations of musicians over two centuries before being acquired by a German businessman, now faces an uncertain future.
The theft occurred while Ibanez was dining at the pub, with his hat placed atop the violin case. As the violin disappeared, the hat fell to the floor, marking the moment the valuable instrument was taken. The businessman who owns the violin had loaned it to Ibanez after being impressed by his online performances, hoping to aid in advancing his career. The violin's absence not only represents a significant financial loss but also a cultural and emotional one for Ibanez.
"It's lived 300 years prior to my hands touching it. It's got its own history." – Mr Ibanez
In an attempt to recover this irreplaceable piece of musical history, the Metropolitan Police have been alerted and are expected to examine CCTV footage from the pub. Additionally, British Transport Police have released a CCTV image of a man believed to have taken the violin. The suspect, identifying himself as "Gene," arranged to meet the violin's owner, Stephen Morris, in a Waitrose car park. This development draws parallels to an incident in 2019 when Morris was reunited with his 310-year-old violin after it was left on a train.
Ibanez expressed the profound connection he has developed with the violin since it came into his life.
"Each hour, each performance, each challenge you get to know each other more and you express yourself through it." – Mr Ibanez
The theft has left Ibanez and many others grappling with an unexpected void.
"Nothing prepares you for having it snatched away." – Mr Ibanez
Richard White, a representative from a prominent musical instrument retailer, assured that efforts are underway to prevent the stolen violin from being sold.
"As long as we know about the instrument, which we do. If that violin comes into us for sale, it will not leave the shop." – Richard White
The musical community continues to rally around Ibanez and the effort to recover this treasured instrument. With its extensive history and unique craftsmanship, the violin is not just an object of monetary value but a testament to centuries of musical tradition and artistry.
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