Michael Dötsch violin, Berlin 1930

Renowned German violin maker Michael Dötsch (1874 - 1940) was born in Neuenbrand, a small Czech town on the German border. Between 1894 and 1908, Dötsch worked in various violin shops throughout Europe, including the workshop of Michael Kohlbacher in Schönbach. Dötsch moved to Berlin in 1909 to work with Erich Lachman until 1914, when he established his own workshop in the Berlin borough of Wilmersdorf. Considered one of the most important German makers of the 20th century, Dötsch is known for his exceptionally accurate copies of classic Italian models, some of which may have been falsely labeled to pass as originals. His instruments won gold medals at an exposition held in Berlin in 1922, and they are highly sought after by collectors and players alike.