Written by an immensely important musicologist, this rare 1860 monograph analyzes Nicolo Paganini's compositions and provides a fascinating history of the violin. Author Fran ois-Joseph F tis was Paganini's close friend and well acquainted with many other Romantic composers and artists. Students of the history of music, music lovers, violinists, and musicologists will find this volume a rare source of firsthand observations on the legendary violin virtuoso and his circle. The treatise begins with a survey of the violin's history that profiles famous makers, including the Amati, Stradivari, and Guarneri families. The subsequent essay, "Art and Artists," provides a concise review of performances, focusing on the Italian and French schools. The biography of Paganini follows, providing rare perspectives on the artist's playing, personal habits, and social behavior -- a colorful portrait of a legendary musician as well as a valuable historical resource.