Anselm Kiefer “Autumn”
Kian Soltani
Anselm Kiefer ”Autumn”  |  Kian Soltani

WE CONNECT SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT­ ­
WITH PEOPLE AND CULTURE.

Markus Lüpertz
“Echo of Poseidon“

“Culture is that which makes humans human.”

Friedrich Schiller

WE CONNECT SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT­ ­
WITH PEOPLE AND CULTURE.

Markus Lüpertz
“Echo of Poseidon“

“Culture is that which makes humans human.”

Friedrich Schiller

WE CONNECT SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT­ ­
WITH PEOPLE AND CULTURE.

Markus Lüpertz
“Echo of Poseidon“
“Culture is that which makes humans human.”

Friedrich Schiller

ABOUT US

MEANING­FUL ASSETS.
RESPON­SIBLE INVESTING.

As the family office of a German family foundation, we believe in the power of capital as a catalyst for culture, creativity and social interaction.

We invest in contemporary art and historical string instruments to preserve assets and make meaningful things possible. Whether artworks by Anselm Kiefer, Tony Cragg, Jörg Immendorff and Yayoi Kusama, or instruments by Antonio Stradivari and Giovanni Battista Guadagnini, for example: our investments open up new perspectives, nurture talent and create experiences – because we believe that culture is not a luxury, but the basis of existence.

Only when money is used to move people, create experiences and widen perspectives does its true meaning unfold. Our portfolios contain contemporary artworks of internationally outstanding quality. ART & STRINGS currently owns works by such artists as Stefan Balkenhol, Tony Cragg, Jörg Immendorff, Anselm Kiefer, Markus Lüpertz, Günther Uecker and Bernar Venet. In addition, we facilitate and support Urban Contemporary Art projects.

We also invest in high-quality historical string instruments. We own instruments by a number of renowned violin makers, including Antonio Stradivari, Giovanni Battista Guadagnini, Nicolò Amati and Andrea Guarneri. Our instruments are given out on loan to talented young artists and established classical stars to promote their careers, or to museums for display or research purposes.

We mainly see three kinds of return on our investments:

  • an immaterial value, in the form of an emotional return. This is defined and experienced differently by each person who owns an artwork or instrument;
  • an cultural value, which comes from preserving hugely important works of art and string instruments;
  • a calculable, largely stable market value as the economic basis of the investment.

“A country is rich when it promotes culture.
Culture is wealth, not the other way around.“

Claudio Abbado, conductor

ABOUT US

MEANING­FUL ASSETS.
RESPON­SIBLE INVESTING.

As the family office of a German family foundation, we believe in the power of capital as a catalyst for culture, creativity and social interaction.

We invest in contemporary art and historical string instruments to preserve assets and make meaningful things possible. Whether artworks by Anselm Kiefer, Tony Cragg, Jörg Immendorff and Yayoi Kusama, or instruments by Antonio Stradivari and Giovanni Battista Guadagnini, for example: our investments open up new perspectives, nurture talent and create experiences – because we believe that culture is not a luxury, but the basis of existence.

Only when money is used to move people, create experiences and widen perspectives does its true meaning unfold. Our portfolios contain contemporary artworks of internationally outstanding quality. ART & STRINGS currently owns works by such artists as Stefan Balkenhol, Tony Cragg, Jörg Immendorff, Anselm Kiefer, Markus Lüpertz, Günther Uecker and Bernar Venet. In addition, we facilitate and support Urban Contemporary Art projects.

We also invest in high-quality historical string instruments. We own instruments by a number of renowned violin makers, including Antonio Stradivari, Giovanni Battista Guadagnini, Nicolò Amati and Andrea Guarneri. Our instruments are given out on loan to talented young artists and established classical stars to promote their careers, or to museums for display or research purposes.

We mainly see three kinds of return on our investments:

  • an immaterial value, in the form of an emotional return. This is defined and experienced differently by each person who owns an artwork or instrument;
  • an cultural value, which comes from preserving hugely important works of art and string instruments;
  • a calculable, largely stable market value as the economic basis of the investment.
“A country is rich when it promotes culture. Culture is wealth, not the other way around.”

Claudio Abbado, conductor

ABOUT US

MEANING­FUL ASSETS.
RESPON­SIBLE INVESTING.

As the family office of a German family foundation, we believe in the power of capital as a catalyst for culture, creativity and social interaction.

We invest in contemporary art and historical string instruments to preserve assets and make meaningful things possible. Whether artworks by Anselm Kiefer, Tony Cragg, Jörg Immendorff and Yayoi Kusama, or instruments by Antonio Stradivari and Giovanni Battista Guadagnini, for example: our investments open up new perspectives, nurture talent and create experiences – because we believe that culture is not a luxury, but the basis of existence.

Only when money is used to move people, create experiences and widen perspectives does its true meaning unfold. Our portfolios contain contemporary artworks of internationally outstanding quality. ART & STRINGS currently owns works by such artists as Stefan Balkenhol, Tony Cragg, Jörg Immendorff, Anselm Kiefer, Markus Lüpertz, Günther Uecker and Bernar Venet. In addition, we facilitate and support Urban Contemporary Art projects.

We also invest in high-quality historical string instruments. We own instruments by a number of renowned violin makers, including Antonio Stradivari, Giovanni Battista Guadagnini, Nicolò Amati and Andrea Guarneri. Our instruments are given out on loan to talented young artists and established classical stars to promote their careers, or to museums for display or research purposes.

We mainly see three kinds of return on our investments:

  • an immaterial value, in the form of an emotional return. This is defined and experienced differently by each person who owns an artwork or instrument;
  • an cultural value, which comes from preserving hugely important works of art and string instruments;
  • a calculable, largely stable market value as the economic basis of the investment.
“A country is rich when it promotes culture. Culture is wealth, not the other way around.”

Claudio Abbado, conductor

Eru Matsumoto, Shanghai
Eru Matsumoto, Shanghai

Impact Investing

OUR INVEST­MENTS ARE TANGIBLE.

Antonio Stradivari and his contemporaries did much more than just make musical instruments: their works are masterpieces of craftsmanship; resonating bodies that demand to be played – and a cultural asset that must be preserved for posterity. Our investments are meaningful, tangible and have an impact on many levels.

We loan our instruments out to outstanding musicians, support social projects, facilitate concerts and make the world of music accessible to young people, while at the same time meticulously preserving a unique cultural asset.

As well as a financial return, we want our investments to have an immaterial impact. High-quality historical string instruments are ideal objects for impact investing.

Historical Impact
Many of these violins, violas and cellos are unique works of art that are over 300 years old. They are part of the cultural world heritage of mankind, which we want to preserve for many generations to come.

Cultural Impact
We loan our instruments out to outstanding artists, whether young, emerging talents or established musicians. Only when they are heard by an audience do the instruments find their true purpose.

Social Impact
Our musicians perform to those who aren’t able to access music themselves. We organise benefit concerts, as well as concerts in hospitals and care homes. ART & STRINGS projects also open up the world of music and art to children and young people.

Scientific Impact
We document the provenance of our instruments as seamlessly as possible, and record their condition using the latest technology, such as dendrochronological tests, varnish analyses and CT scans. Through tokenisation, all historical and future data is then stored on a verified and fraud-proof blockchain.

“I can think of few other investments more rewarding than owning an instrument made by one of the great Italian makers, or one of the leading contemporary makers, and loaning it to the right individuals or ensembles.“

Jonathan Moulds, investor and former Head of Int. Global Markets for Bank of America

Impact Investing

OUR INVEST­MENTS ARE TANGIBLE.

Antonio Stradivari and his contemporaries did much more than just make musical instruments: their works are masterpieces of craftsmanship; resonating bodies that demand to be played – and a cultural asset that must be preserved for posterity. Our investments are meaningful, tangible and have an impact on many levels.

We loan our instruments out to outstanding musicians, support social projects, facilitate concerts and make the world of music accessible to young people, while at the same time meticulously preserving a unique cultural asset.

As well as a financial return, we want our investments to have an immaterial impact. High-quality historical string instruments are ideal objects for impact investing.

Historical Impact
Many of these violins, violas and cellos are unique works of art that are over 300 years old. They are part of the cultural world heritage of mankind, which we want to preserve for many generations to come.

Cultural Impact
We loan our instruments out to outstanding artists, whether young, emerging talents or established musicians. Only when they are heard by an audience do the instruments find their true purpose.

Social Impact
Our musicians perform to those who aren’t able to access music themselves. We organise benefit concerts, as well as concerts in hospitals and care homes. ART & STRINGS projects also open up the world of music and art to children and young people.

Scientific Impact
We document the provenance of our instruments as seamlessly as possible, and record their condition using the latest technology, such as dendrochronological tests, varnish analyses and CT scans. Through tokenisation, all historical and future data is then stored on a verified and fraud-proof blockchain.

“I can think of few other investments more rewarding than owning an instrument made by one of the great Italian makers, or one of the leading contemporary makers, and loaning it to the right individuals or ensembles.“

Jonathan Moulds, investor and former Head of Int. Global Markets for Bank of America

Impact Investing

OUR INVEST­MENTS ARE TANGIBLE.

Antonio Stradivari and his contemporaries did much more than just make musical instruments: their works are masterpieces of craftsmanship; resonating bodies that demand to be played – and a cultural asset that must be preserved for posterity. Our investments are meaningful, tangible and have an impact on many levels.

We loan our instruments out to outstanding musicians, support social projects, facilitate concerts and make the world of music accessible to young people, while at the same time meticulously preserving a unique cultural asset.

As well as a financial return, we want our investments to have an immaterial impact. High-quality historical string instruments are ideal objects for impact investing.

Historical Impact
Many of these violins, violas and cellos are unique works of art that are over 300 years old. They are part of the cultural world heritage of mankind, which we want to preserve for many generations to come.

Cultural Impact
We loan our instruments out to outstanding artists, whether young, emerging talents or established musicians. Only when they are heard by an audience do the instruments find their true purpose.

Social Impact
Our musicians perform to those who aren’t able to access music themselves. We organise benefit concerts, as well as concerts in hospitals and care homes. ART & STRINGS projects also open up the world of music and art to children and young people.

Scientific Impact
We document the provenance of our instruments as seamlessly as possible, and record their condition using the latest technology, such as dendrochronological tests, varnish analyses and CT scans. Through tokenisation, all historical and future data is then stored on a verified and fraud-proof blockchain.

“I can think of few other investments more rewarding than owning an instrument made by one of the great Italian makers, or one of the leading contemporary makers, and loaning it to the right individuals or ensembles.“

Jonathan Moulds, investor and former Head of Int. Global Markets for Bank of America

Dirk Brömmel S.M. Nr. 09 St. aus der Serie „Schwimmende Märkte“
Dirk Brömmel S.M. Nr. 09 St. aus der Serie „Schwimmende Märkte“

MATERIAL ASSETS

WE INVEST CONSER­VATIVELY.

Works of art and historical string instruments are not only culturally important, but also financially attractive. They combine ethical investing with a return that grows largely independently from the fluctuations of more traditional investments.

We believe that artworks and historical string instruments are sound assets that belong in the portfolio of every wealthy private individual who cares more about ethical and sustainable investing than maximising profits. Both assets are also suitable mission investments for foundations and institutions involved in promoting art and music.

Aside from the aspect of patronage, a Stradivari instrument represents an immense value. These are some of the most expensive art objects in the world. Since the 1980s, violins by the Cremonese violin maker have achieved the highest increase in value on the market. Dr. Angela Ortiz-Munoz dedicated her dissertation to this topic and discovered that the average real annual return rate historischer Streichinstrumente bei 3,7 und für Instrumente von Stradivari bei 6,9 Prozent liegt. Bei Instrumenten von Stradivari liegen sie mit 4,9 bis 7,7 Prozent noch etwas höher. Zu anderen Assetklassen, wie Aktien, Anleihen, Liquidität und Edelmetallen, ist diese Wertentwicklung nur gering korreliert.

From a financial point of view, we tend to invest conservatively in real assets with stable performance.

Tony Cragg
“Gate”

“As a banker I have spent many years looking at investment performance, and to my knowledge top-end antique stringed instruments have historically out-performed almost all other asset classes.“

Jonathan Moulds, investor and former Head of Int. Global Markets for Bank of America

MATERIAL ASSETS

WE INVEST CONSER­VATIVELY.

Works of art and historical string instruments are not only culturally important, but also financially attractive. They combine ethical investing with a return that grows largely independently from the fluctuations of more traditional investments.

We believe that artworks and historical string instruments are sound assets that belong in the portfolio of every wealthy private individual who cares more about ethical and sustainable investing than maximising profits. Both assets are also suitable mission investments for foundations and institutions involved in promoting art and music.

Aside from the aspect of patronage, a Stradivari instrument represents an immense value. These are some of the most expensive art objects in the world. Since the 1980s, violins by the Cremonese violin maker have achieved the highest increase in value on the market. Dr. Angela Ortiz-Munoz dedicated her dissertation to this topic and discovered that the average real annual return rate historischer Streichinstrumente bei 3,7 und für Instrumente von Stradivari bei 6,9 Prozent liegt. Bei Instrumenten von Stradivari liegen sie mit 4,9 bis 7,7 Prozent noch etwas höher. Zu anderen Assetklassen, wie Aktien, Anleihen, Liquidität und Edelmetallen, ist diese Wertentwicklung nur gering korreliert.

From a financial point of view, we tend to invest conservatively in real assets with stable performance.

Tony Cragg
“Gate”

“As a banker I have spent many years looking at investment performance, and to my knowledge top-end antique stringed instruments have historically out-performed almost all other asset classes.“

Jonathan Moulds, investor and former Head of Int. Global Markets for Bank of America

MATERIAL ASSETS

WE INVEST CONSER­VATIVELY.

Works of art and historical string instruments are not only culturally important, but also financially attractive. They combine ethical investing with a return that grows largely independently from the fluctuations of more traditional investments.

We believe that artworks and historical string instruments are sound assets that belong in the portfolio of every wealthy private individual who cares more about ethical and sustainable investing than maximising profits. Both assets are also suitable mission investments for foundations and institutions involved in promoting art and music.

Aside from the aspect of patronage, a Stradivari instrument represents an immense value. These are some of the most expensive art objects in the world. Since the 1980s, violins by the Cremonese violin maker have achieved the highest increase in value on the market. Dr. Angela Ortiz-Munoz dedicated her dissertation to this topic and discovered that the average real annual return rate historischer Streichinstrumente bei 3,7 und für Instrumente von Stradivari bei 6,9 Prozent liegt. Bei Instrumenten von Stradivari liegen sie mit 4,9 bis 7,7 Prozent noch etwas höher. Zu anderen Assetklassen, wie Aktien, Anleihen, Liquidität und Edelmetallen, ist diese Wertentwicklung nur gering korreliert.

From a financial point of view, we tend to invest conservatively in real assets with stable performance.

Tony Cragg
“Gate”
“As a banker I have spent many years looking at investment performance, and to my knowledge top-end antique stringed instruments have historically out-performed almost all other asset classes.“

Jonathan Moulds, investor and former Head of Int. Global Markets for Bank of America

TOKENISATION

WHY TOKENISATION?

Through tokenisation, works of art and historical string instruments are given a Digital Product Passport and therefore a fraud-resistant digital identity.

Each token stores all of the relevant information – from provenance, certificates and valuation reports to concerts, artists and violin makers – in a transparent, decentralised and inalterable way. Working together with the blockchain FinTech company vountain, we are creating a new level of trust for owners, collectors, foundations, dealers and investors. This is not speculative, but safe and long-term thinking. The future of tokenisation will not only bring technological innovations, but also a new way of managing assets, legal rights and transactions.

Tokenisation is a huge step in digitalisation whereby real assets, such as string instruments or artworks, are converted into digital units known as tokens.

Token bilden den Vermögenswert digital ab und enthalten alle wichtigen Informationen, Rechte Pflichten –einschließlich der potenziellen Übertragbarkeit. Die Daten im Token sind sicher, unveränderbar und werden fälschungssicher dezentral gespeichert. So können Vermögenswerte leichter übertragen und auch gehandelt werden.

In collaboration with the blockchain FinTech company vountain, we use a multi-role token structure. All available information – every valuation, certificate, every repair, every concert, every musician that has played the instrument, etc. – is stored using tokens. The outcome is a complete, verified and validated documentation of both historical and future data, which we believe will simplify asset management and the trade in works of art and instruments. Due-diligence processes based on factual comparability will play a huge role in building trust for current and future owners, and will increase the liquidity of the market, which continues to be characterised by information asymmetry and a handful of dominant market players.

With tokenisation the focus is therefore not on speculative interests, but on maximum transparency, traceability, security, long-term reliability and transferability.

Once the regulatory requirements are in place, the digital securitisation and fractionalisation of property rights should also become a reality. Traditional proofs of ownership, such as deeds or physical documents, could then be replaced by digital tokens that are stored on the blockchain. This would improve investment and diversification opportunities and make valuable, high-end investment objects such as art or historical string instruments accessible to a broader group of investors.

We strongly believe that it is not the token that makes an asset tradable, but the reliable database behind it – because if you don't understand an asset, you won't invest in it.

“Your task is not to foresee the future,
but to enable it.“

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

TOKENISATION

WHY TOKENI­SATION?

Through tokenisation, works of art and historical string instruments are given a Digital Product Passport and therefore a fraud-resistant digital identity.

Each token stores all of the relevant information – from provenance, certificates and valuation reports to concerts, artists and violin makers – in a transparent, decentralised and inalterable way. Working together with the blockchain FinTech company vountain, we are creating a new level of trust for owners, collectors, foundations, dealers and investors. This is not speculative, but safe and long-term thinking. The future of tokenisation will not only bring technological innovations, but also a new way of managing assets, legal rights and transactions.

Tokenisation is a huge step in digitalisation whereby real assets, such as string instruments or artworks, are converted into digital units known as tokens.

Token bilden den Vermögenswert digital ab und enthalten alle wichtigen Informationen, Rechte Pflichten –einschließlich der potenziellen Übertragbarkeit. Die Daten im Token sind sicher, unveränderbar und werden fälschungssicher dezentral gespeichert. So können Vermögenswerte leichter übertragen und auch gehandelt werden.

In collaboration with the blockchain FinTech company vountain, we use a multi-role token structure. All available information – every valuation, certificate, every repair, every concert, every musician that has played the instrument, etc. – is stored using tokens. The outcome is a complete, verified and validated documentation of both historical and future data, which we believe will simplify asset management and the trade in works of art and instruments. Due-diligence processes based on factual comparability will play a huge role in building trust for current and future owners, and will increase the liquidity of the market, which continues to be characterised by information asymmetry and a handful of dominant market players.

With tokenisation the focus is therefore not on speculative interests, but on maximum transparency, traceability, security, long-term reliability and transferability.

Once the regulatory requirements are in place, the digital securitisation and fractionalisation of property rights should also become a reality. Traditional proofs of ownership, such as deeds or physical documents, could then be replaced by digital tokens that are stored on the blockchain. This would improve investment and diversification opportunities and make valuable, high-end investment objects such as art or historical string instruments accessible to a broader group of investors.

We strongly believe that it is not the token that makes an asset tradable, but the reliable database behind it – because if you don't understand an asset, you won't invest in it.

“Your task is not to foresee the future,
but to enable it.“

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Tokenisier-
ung

WHY TOKENI­SATION?

Through tokenisation, works of art and historical string instruments are given a Digital Product Passport and therefore a fraud-resistant digital identity.

Each token stores all of the relevant information – from provenance, certificates and valuation reports to concerts, artists and violin makers – in a transparent, decentralised and inalterable way. Working together with the blockchain FinTech company vountain, we are creating a new level of trust for owners, collectors, foundations, dealers and investors. This is not speculative, but safe and long-term thinking. The future of tokenisation will not only bring technological innovations, but also a new way of managing assets, legal rights and transactions.

Tokenisation is a huge step in digitalisation whereby real assets, such as string instruments or artworks, are converted into digital units known as tokens.

Token bilden den Vermögenswert digital ab und enthalten alle wichtigen Informationen, Rechte Pflichten –einschließlich der potenziellen Übertragbarkeit. Die Daten im Token sind sicher, unveränderbar und werden fälschungssicher dezentral gespeichert. So können Vermögenswerte leichter übertragen und auch gehandelt werden.

In collaboration with the blockchain FinTech company vountain, we use a multi-role token structure. All available information – every valuation, certificate, every repair, every concert, every musician that has played the instrument, etc. – is stored using tokens. The outcome is a complete, verified and validated documentation of both historical and future data, which we believe will simplify asset management and the trade in works of art and instruments. Due-diligence processes based on factual comparability will play a huge role in building trust for current and future owners, and will increase the liquidity of the market, which continues to be characterised by information asymmetry and a handful of dominant market players.

With tokenisation the focus is therefore not on speculative interests, but on maximum transparency, traceability, security, long-term reliability and transferability.

Once the regulatory requirements are in place, the digital securitisation and fractionalisation of property rights should also become a reality. Traditional proofs of ownership, such as deeds or physical documents, could then be replaced by digital tokens that are stored on the blockchain. This would improve investment and diversification opportunities and make valuable, high-end investment objects such as art or historical string instruments accessible to a broader group of investors.

We strongly believe that it is not the token that makes an asset tradable, but the reliable database behind it – because if you don't understand an asset, you won't invest in it.

“Your task is not to foresee the future,
but to enable it.“

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Cello Antonio Stradivari, Cremona, c. 1690 “Barjansky“
Cello Antonio Stradivari, Cremona, c. 1690 “Barjansky“

THE BARJANSKY PROJECT

SETTING A NEW STANDARD
IN DOCUMENTATION.

With Antonio Stradivari’s “Barjansky” cello we broke new ground in two ways. In 2021, commissioned by ART & STRINGS, the most comprehensive monograph on a string instrument yet was published: a 400-page documentation of the cello’s origins, sound, condition and history. The next milestone came in 2024: the TOKENISATION of the cello and, with it, the creation of a secure digital product pass. The digital identity of an asset – as unique as a fingerprint.

In this way the cello’s history has now been stored inalterably, and it has also become possible to transparently and securely document its future, setting a new standard in combining culture with technology.

The Barjansky monograph explores almost every aspect of the cello: its creation, provenance and condition, as well as its restoration, the materials used – from the wood right up to the varnish and strings – and its sound. A multitude of independent experts, historians and research institutions contributed articles and are responsible for the content of the book.

In 2024 ART & STRINGS broke new ground with this instrument for the second time when, in collaboration with the German blockchain FinTech company vountain, the cello was tokenised. This means that not only everything we already know about the cello’s history is secured, including the Barjansky monograph, but in particular that all future data can also be stored on the token by the experts and musicians themselves, thanks to the multi-role token structure. Through tokenisation, an unbroken record of the future history of the cello has therefore already begun, providing the greatest possible guarantee of authenticity as well as maximum transparency and security.

With the Barjansky cello, ART & STRINGS has thus set two new standards in innovation.

Cello Antonio Stradivari, Cremona, c. 1690 “Barjansky“

“The Barjansky cello by Antonio Stradivari combines all of the qualities that mark a great instrument and enable an artist to express themselves and allow the instrument to become their own voice. It is my job as an artist to make the instrument sing – and that is exactly what this instrument is able to do.”

Kian Soltani, cellist

THE BARJANSKY PROJECT

SETTING A NEW STANDARD
IN DOCUMENTATION.

With Antonio Stradivari’s “Barjansky” cello we broke new ground in two ways. In 2021, commissioned by ART & STRINGS, the most comprehensive monograph on a string instrument yet was published: a 400-page documentation of the cello’s origins, sound, condition and history. The next milestone came in 2024: the TOKENISATION of the cello and, with it, the creation of a secure digital product pass. The digital identity of an asset – as unique as a fingerprint.

In this way the cello’s history has now been stored inalterably, and it has also become possible to transparently and securely document its future, setting a new standard in combining culture with technology.

The Barjansky monograph explores almost every aspect of the cello: its creation, provenance and condition, as well as its restoration, the materials used – from the wood right up to the varnish and strings – and its sound. A multitude of independent experts, historians and research institutions contributed articles and are responsible for the content of the book.

2024 hat ART & STRINGS mit diesem Instrument noch einmal Neuland betreten. Gemeinsam mit dem deutschen BlockchainFinTech­ vountain, the cello was tokenised. This means that not only everything we already know about the cello’s history is secured, including the Barjansky monograph, but in particular that all future data can also be stored on the token by the experts and musicians themselves, thanks to the multi-role token structure. Through tokenisation, an unbroken record of the future history of the cello has therefore already begun, providing the greatest possible guarantee of authenticity as well as maximum transparency and security.

With the Barjansky cello,
ART & STRINGS has thus set two new standards in innovation.

Cello Antonio Stradivari, Cremona, c. 1690 “Barjansky“
“The Barjansky cello by Antonio Stradivari combines all of the qualities that mark a great instrument and enable an artist to express themselves and allow the instrument to become their own voice. It is my job as an artist to make the instrument sing – and that is exactly what this instrument is able to do.”

Kian Soltani, cellist

THE BARJANSKY PROJECT

SETTING A NEW STANDARD
IN DOCU­MENT­­ATION

With Antonio Stradivari’s “Barjansky” cello we broke new ground in two ways. In 2021, commissioned by ART & STRINGS, the most comprehensive monograph on a string instrument yet was published: a 400-page documentation of the cello’s origins, sound, condition and history. The next milestone came in 2024: the TOKENISATION of the cello and, with it, the creation of a secure digital product pass. The digital identity of an asset – as unique as a fingerprint.

In this way the cello’s history has now been stored inalterably, and it has also become possible to transparently and securely document its future, setting a new standard in combining culture with technology.

The Barjansky monograph explores almost every aspect of the cello: its creation, provenance and condition, as well as its restoration, the materials used – from the wood right up to the varnish and strings – and its sound. A multitude of independent experts, historians and research institutions contributed articles and are responsible for the content of the book.

In 2024 ART & STRINGS broke new ground with this instrument for the second time when, in collaboration with the German blockchain FinTech company vountain, the cello was tokenised. This means that not only everything we already know about the cello’s history is secured, including the Barjansky monograph, but in particular that all future data can also be stored on the token by the experts and musicians themselves, thanks to the multi-role token structure. Through tokenisation, an unbroken record of the future history of the cello has therefore already begun, providing the greatest possible guarantee of authenticity as well as maximum transparency and security.

With the Barjansky cello,
ART & STRINGS has thus set two new standards in innovation.

Cello Antonio Stradivari, Cremona, c. 1690 “Barjansky“
“The Barjansky cello by Antonio Stradivari combines all of the qualities that mark a great instrument and enable an artist to express themselves and allow the instrument to become their own voice. It is my job as an artist to make the instrument sing – and that is exactly what this instrument is able to do.”

Kian Soltani, cellist

Anselm Kiefer “Those who don't have a house now will never build one.“
Alex Katz ”Coca-Cola Girl #6“
Anselm Kiefer “Those who don't have a house now will never build one.“
Anselm Kiefer “Those who don't have a house now will never build one.“

OBJECTIVES

ACHIEVING MORE TOGETHER.

At ART & STRINGS we invest in art and historical string instruments that bring together cultural, emotional and financial value. Our objectives: fair, transparent structures, and sustainable partnerships on equal terms.

As an independent family office, we act impartially – with a clear focus on quality, integrity and impact. We share our expertise with other family offices, private investors, foundations and institutions who seek purpose and substance in their investments.

We see investments in art and historical string instruments as investments with a soul – they combine cultural value with emotional and financial substance. We advocate a sustainable and responsible approach to these unique assets. Our primary aim is to create a fair framework for all stakeholders and market operators, and to promote the balance of interests.

Independence: As the family office of a German family foundation, we are financially independent. This makes us wholly impartial, and sharpens our critical focus for the really important things.

Expertise: Based on many years of experience working for our family foundation, we want to bring this topic to a broader group of potential investors. We are familiar with the legal and technical requirements as well as the thought patterns and habits of the sectors in which we operate.

Tokenisation: The art and instrument market is characterised by historically evolved information asymmetry that serves the interests of a few dominant market operators. In tokenisation we see an effective instrument for promoting transparency, comparability and liquidity, and for enabling more people to be part of future cultural value creation through fractional ownership .

Trust and Transparency: We consider these two principles the basis for every private and business relationship. Transparency enhances trust and is therefore an important foundation upon which trust is built. We want to create win-win situations that benefit everyone involved.

Impact: Historical string instruments are much more than just a capital investment: they preserve cultural heritage, have a positive societal impact, and inspire new ways of interacting with music and technology.

Network: ART & STRINGS works with internationally recognised art and instrument experts who know the market and the objects and their owners. Our network also includes foundations, museums, gallery curators, violin makers and restorers, artists, jurors, historians and a diverse array of scientists.

“We want to give other investors access to the foundation’s years of positive experiences. When it comes to sustainable investments with impact and an emotional return, we are in our element.”

Dr. Joachim Brunne, CEO

OBJECTIVES

ACHIEVING MORE TOGETHER.

At ART & STRINGS we invest in art and historical string instruments that bring together cultural, emotional and financial value. Our objectives: fair, transparent structures, and sustainable partnerships on equal terms.

As an independent family office, we act impartially – with a clear focus on quality, integrity and impact. We share our expertise with other family offices, private investors, foundations and institutions who seek purpose and substance in their investments.

We see investments in art and historical string instruments as investments with a soul – they combine cultural value with emotional and financial substance. We advocate a sustainable and responsible approach to these unique assets. Our primary aim is to create a fair framework for all stakeholders and market operators, and to promote the balance of interests.

Independence: As the family office of a German family foundation, we are financially independent. This makes us wholly impartial, and sharpens our critical focus for the really important things.

Expertise: Based on many years of experience working for our family foundation, we want to bring this topic to a broader group of potential investors. We are familiar with the legal and technical requirements as well as the thought patterns and habits of the sectors in which we operate.

Tokenisation: The art and instrument market is characterised by historically evolved information asymmetry that serves the interests of a few dominant market operators. In tokenisation we see an effective instrument for promoting transparency, comparability and liquidity, and for enabling more people to be part of future cultural value creation through fractional ownership .

Trust and Transparency: We consider these two principles the basis for every private and business relationship. Transparency enhances trust and is therefore an important foundation upon which trust is built. We want to create win-win situations that benefit everyone involved.

Impact: Historical string instruments are much more than just a capital investment: they preserve cultural heritage, have a positive societal impact, and inspire new ways of interacting with music and technology.

Network: ART & STRINGS works with internationally recognised art and instrument experts who know the market and the objects and their owners. Our network also includes foundations, museums, gallery curators, violin makers and restorers, artists, jurors, historians and a diverse array of scientists.

“We want to give other investors access to the foundation’s years of positive experiences. When it comes to sustainable investments with impact and an emotional return, we are in our element.”

Dr. Joachim Brunne, CEO

OBJECTIVES

ACHIEVING MORE TOGETHER.

At ART & STRINGS we invest in art and historical string instruments that bring together cultural, emotional and financial value. Our objectives: fair, transparent structures, and sustainable partnerships on equal terms.

As an independent family office, we act impartially – with a clear focus on quality, integrity and impact. We share our expertise with other family offices, private investors, foundations and institutions who seek purpose and substance in their investments.

We see investments in art and historical string instruments as investments with a soul – they combine cultural value with emotional and financial substance. We advocate a sustainable and responsible approach to these unique assets. Our primary aim is to create a fair framework for all stakeholders and market operators, and to promote the balance of interests.

Independence: As the family office of a German family foundation, we are financially independent. This makes us wholly impartial, and sharpens our critical focus for the really important things.

Expertise: Based on many years of experience working for our family foundation, we want to bring this topic to a broader group of potential investors. We are familiar with the legal and technical requirements as well as the thought patterns and habits of the sectors in which we operate.

Tokenisation: The art and instrument market is characterised by historically evolved information asymmetry that serves the interests of a few dominant market operators. In tokenisation we see an effective instrument for promoting transparency, comparability and liquidity, and for enabling more people to be part of future cultural value creation through fractional ownership .

Trust and Transparency: We consider these two principles the basis for every private and business relationship. Transparency enhances trust and is therefore an important foundation upon which trust is built. We want to create win-win situations that benefit everyone involved.

Impact: Historical string instruments are much more than just a capital investment: they preserve cultural heritage, have a positive societal impact, and inspire new ways of interacting with music and technology.

Network: ART & STRINGS works with internationally recognised art and instrument experts who know the market and the objects and their owners. Our network also includes foundations, museums, gallery curators, violin makers and restorers, artists, jurors, historians and a diverse array of scientists.

“We want to give other investors access to the foundation’s years of positive experiences. When it comes to sustainable investments with impact and an emotional return, we are in our element.”

Dr. Joachim Brunne, CEO

Alex Katz ”Coca-Cola Girl #6“
Alex Katz ”Coca-Cola Girl #6“

SERVICES

WE SHARE OUR KNOW-HOW.

Investing in works of art and historical string instruments requires specialist knowledge and experience. We provide both of these and even pass them on – to private investors, foundations and owners who want to combine immaterial and real value in a meaningful way.

From the initial idea right up to tokenisation, we support each of the necessary steps with a modular service – for anyone who not only wants to preserve culture but also shape it.

According to need, our support can cover the entire value creation chain of an investment: from acquisition, patronage and documentation all the way to tokenisation.

Acquisition and Procurement Management

  • concept and strategy
  • due diligence
  • support during the acquisition and sales processes
  • procuring instruments and works of art
  • creating and expanding collections
  • planning and execution of “Kunst am Bau” projects

Instrument and Art Asset Management

  • certificates of authenticity
  • valuation and insurance valuation reports
  • scientific analyses and examinations
  • historical research
  • protection of cultural assets
  • Art Loss Register (ALR) and Lost Art Internet Database
  • storage in an art warehouse or free port
  • customs, import and export
  • instrument and artwork insurance
  • loan of instruments to musicians and orchestras
  • project planning and refinement

Document Management

  • management and archiving of all relevant documents, records and data

Patronage Management

  • concept and strategy
  • talent scouting
  • loaning instruments and supporting the musicians
  • organising private and benefit concerts

Token Management

  • consultation and introduction
  • support and implementation of the token initiation
  • setting up the infrastructure
  • asset and document management using tokens

SERVICES

WE SHARE OUR KNOW-HOW.

Investing in works of art and historical string instruments requires specialist knowledge and experience. We provide both of these and even pass them on – to private investors, foundations and owners who want to combine immaterial and real value in a meaningful way.

From the initial idea right up to tokenisation, we support each of the necessary steps with a modular service – for anyone who not only wants to preserve culture but also shape it.

According to need, our support can cover the entire value creation chain of an investment: from acquisition, patronage and documentation all the way to tokenisation.

Acquisition and Procurement Management

  • concept and strategy
  • due diligence
  • support during the acquisition and sales processes
  • procuring instruments and works of art
  • creating and expanding collections
  • planning and execution of “Kunst am Bau” projects

Instrument and Art Asset Management

  • certificates of authenticity
  • valuation and insurance valuation reports
  • scientific analyses and examinations
  • historical research
  • protection of cultural assets
  • Art Loss Register (ALR) and Lost Art Internet Database
  • storage in an art warehouse or free port
  • customs, import and export
  • instrument and artwork insurance
  • loan of instruments to musicians and orchestras
  • project planning and refinement

Document Management

  • management and archiving of all relevant documents, records and data

Patronage Management

  • concept and strategy
  • talent scouting
  • loaning instruments and supporting the musicians
  • organising private and benefit concerts

Token Management

  • consultation and introduction
  • support and implementation of the token initiation
  • setting up the infrastructure
  • asset and document management using tokens

SERVICES

WE SHARE OUR KNOW-HOW.

Investing in works of art and historical string instruments requires specialist knowledge and experience. We provide both of these and even pass them on – to private investors, foundations and owners who want to combine immaterial and real value in a meaningful way.

From the initial idea right up to tokenisation, we support each of the necessary steps with a modular service – for anyone who not only wants to preserve culture but also shape it.

According to need, our support can cover the entire value creation chain of an investment: from acquisition, patronage and documentation all the way to tokenisation.

Acquisition and Procurement Management

  • concept and strategy
  • due diligence
  • support during the acquisition and sales processes
  • procuring instruments and works of art
  • creating and expanding collections
  • planning and execution of “Kunst am Bau” projects

Instrument and Art Asset Management

  • certificates of authenticity
  • valuation and insurance valuation reports
  • scientific analyses and examinations
  • historical research
  • protection of cultural assets
  • Art Loss Register (ALR) and Lost Art Internet Database
  • storage in an art warehouse or free port
  • customs, import and export
  • instrument and artwork insurance
  • loan of instruments to musicians and orchestras
  • project planning and refinement

Document Management

  • management and archiving of all relevant documents, records and data

Patronage Management

  • concept and strategy
  • talent scouting
  • loaning instruments and supporting the musicians
  • organising private and benefit concerts

Token Management

  • consultation and introduction
  • support and implementation of the token initiation
  • setting up the infrastructure
  • asset and document management using tokens
Willi Siber “Wall objects“
Willi Siber “Wall objects“

Team

WE OFFER ACCESS TO NETWORKS AND MARKETS.

Dr. Joachim Brunne
CEO

Eric Bernard Beuerle de Castro
Head of Art

Christian Ludwig
Head of Strings

Team

WE OFFER ACCESS TO NETWORKS AND MARKETS.

Dr. Joachim Brunne
CEO

Eric Bernard Beuerle de Castro
Head of Art

Christian Ludwig
Head of Strings

Team

WE OFFER ACCESS TO NETWORKS AND MARKETS.

Dr. Joachim Brunne
CEO

Eric Bernard Beuerle de Castro
Head of Art

Christian Ludwig
Head of Strings

CONTACT

WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU.

ALAGO ART & STRINGS GMBH
Luisenstrasse 3 – Villa im Hof
65185 Wiesbaden, Germany
contact@art-strings.de

CONTACT

Wir freuen uns auf Ihre
Kontaktaufnahme.

ALAGO ART & STRINGS GMBH
Luisenstrasse 3 – Villa im Hof
65185 Wiesbaden, Germany
contact@art-strings.de

CONTACT

WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU.

ALAGO ART & STRINGS GMBH
Luisenstrasse 3 – Villa im Hof
65185 Wiesbaden, Germany
contact@art-strings.de