[bilboa]

I think most people understand that rarity and antiquity have an intrinsic value to many people, including for violins. If someone said they value their Stradivarius because it's a piece of history, I don't think there would be much debate. What some people are skeptical of are the claims that antique violins also have better acoustic and playing characteristics than violins made by the best contemporary makers.

[samatman]

That sort of discourse is used to paper over some uncomfortable class dynamics. There are more elite players than there used to be, but not by that much, and playing (sometimes owning) a known instrument is an indicator of lineage and favor.

[bilboa]

Agreed. I've read accounts from several elite players who were told they wouldn't be taken as seriously if they played a contemporary instrument compared to if they played a Strad or Guarneri, independent of their playing ability.