In Classic v. Modern Violins, Beauty is in Ear of the Beholder [Free registration may be required]
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/03/science/in-play-off-between-old-and-new-violins-stradivarius-lags.html
Aesthetics and Money: Fiddling with the Mind
http://www.economist.com/node/21542380
Stradivarius Fails Sound Test versus Newbie...