One of the most important dynasties of German violin making was the Klotz family of Markneukirchen. Matthias I was born in Markneukirchen in 1653 and was the first maker of the family with the family tradition continuing well into the 20th. century. This viola dates from the 18th century and is of the classic Klotz family style. It has an outstanding tone and is of a very comfortable size.