Researchers unveil the hidden mystery behind Paganini's treasured violin by conducting X-ray examinations, shedding light on the instrument's unique sound production.

The legendary violin, affectionately known as 'Il Cannone' or 'The Cannon', is currently undergoing scientific tests at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, France. This 18th-century instrument, crafted by master luthier Giuseppe Guarneri in 1743, is one of the most famous and valuable violins in existence, insured for €30 million.

The violin's illustrious history began when it was gifted to the legendary violin virtuoso, Niccolo Paganini. Paganini was so captivated by the instrument that he refused to return it to its original owner, a French businessman and amateur violinist named Livron. Paganini nicknamed the violin 'Il Cannone', a testament to its powerful, cannon-like sound.

The violin remained in Paganini's possession for the remainder of his life. After his death, the violin passed through various hands, including that of the renowned violinist, Yehudi Menuhin. Today, it is owned by the German violinist, Anne-Sophie Mutter.

The current study aims to learn more about the violin's wood structure and understand what makes its sound so special. Luigi Paolasini, a physicist at the ESRF, is leading the project, with Paul Tafforeau as a colleague involved in the study. They are using an innovative new technique, allowing for a hyper-detailed 3D rendering of the violin.

The first goal of the study is the conservation of the violin, with the aim of repairing any flaws using detailed data obtained from the study. Researchers are using special 'non-destructive' X-rays to study the violin's minute details. The 3D rendering will allow scientists to zoom into areas as small as a micron (one-thousandth of a millimeter).

Paolasini states that the project opens new possibilities for investigating the conservation of ancient musical instruments. Tafforeau describes the study as a "kind of dream". Results from the study are expected to take several months to materialize.

The project promises to shed light on the secrets of this iconic violin, ensuring its preservation for future generations to appreciate. The study at the ESRF marks an exciting step forward in the understanding and conservation of musical instruments of historical significance.

Researchers unveil the hidden mystery behind Paganini's treasured violin by conducting X-ray examinations, shedding light on the instrument's unique sound production.