NEW YORK, NY.- Kestenbaum & Company, a New York City based boutique auction house specializing in rare books, manuscripts, Hebraica and Judaica, announced the results of their second Musical Instruments auction.

In consultation with David Bonsey, an independent appraiser, Kestenbaum & Company’s Musical Instruments spring auction showcased 176 lots consisting of stringed instruments, bows, cases, related books and catalogues; of which 66% sold, bringing a total over $220,000 (Price includes Buyer’s Premium) at their live auction held at the company’s salesroom located in Midtown Manhattan on May 15th.

Highlights included Eugene Sartory silver mounted violin bow which sold for $16,000; Charles Pecatte silver mounted violin bow sold for $13,000; Albert Caressa 1924 French violin decorated in gold leaf sold for $11,000; and Giusseppe Tarantino 1922 Neapolitan violin sold for $8,000.

“We are very pleased with the direction the sales has taken and are excited to build our niche as an alternative in the market,” said Adam Rosenbaum, Head of Musical Instruments at Kestenbaum & Company. “It’s important for us to be in this market as Jewish heritage is historically, intricately linked to violins throughout history”

This announcement comes on the heels of Kestenbaum’s inaugural sale last October (totaling $85,000), more than doubling the first sale’s total amount, and certainly raising the interest of buyers and consigners alike.

Founded in 1995 by Daniel E. Kestenbaum, a seasoned international expert in rare books, manuscripts, and Jewish fine & applied arts, Kestenbaum & Company is a boutique auction house renowned for its expertise in the fields of Hebraica and Judaica. Top collectors, specialized dealers, museum curators and acquisition directors around the world rely on Kestenbaum’s expertise and value its discretion and integrity. Kestenbaum & Company is one of the largest niche Auction Houses in the United States having sold to date over 40,000 lots at auction of rare and antique Judaica.