← Back to Blog ABOUT VIOLINS

Notable Sale: Violin by Fratelli Gagliano, Naples c.1800

By Luan Amorim Published April 24, 2026 5 min read

The Fratelli Gagliano is addressed to the brothers Giuseppe, Giovanni & Antonio Gagliano who stand for the great makers of the Gagliano family third generation, who consolidated and matured the characteristics and style later known as the Classic Neapolitan School.

Violin by Fratelli Gagliano, Naples c.1800

This violin portrays an incredible picture of an important transition chapter in Italian violin-making history. Crafted by the Gagliano brothers Giuseppe, Antonio, and Giovanni, this unbelievably well-preserved violin tells the story of how the makers applied the transition to the modern violin between the 18th and 19th centuries. The three sons of Nicolò Gagliano often worked alone but sometimes made an instrument together, which is the case of this one.

The kind and colour of varnish used was an important feature of this school and a very attractive characteristic of this violin, as it is still barely untouched.

Besides the great quality of the violin itself, this instrument still has its original neck, head, upper block, and nails set aside from the violin. The current modern neck and head are replicas of the original one. This decision was made to preserve the originality of the neck with its head instead of crafting a new neck to it, preserving the possibility of having the violin assembled back again as it was first conceived.LISTEN TO IT

Fratelli Gagliano - Naples, Italy

The Fratelli Gagliano; Giuseppe, Giovanni and Antonio are the sons of Nicolò Gagliano, grandsons of Alessandro Gagliano and nephews of Gennaro. Giuseppe had exceptional talent, while Antonio often collaborated with his brother. Giovanni's instruments stand on their own and are somewhat rare. The Fratelli  Gagliano contributed to the family workshop's rich heritage, producing instruments that are now treasured rarities.

Fratelli Gagliano Influences and Style

The Gagliano family, is a celebrated lineage of Italian violin makers with a legacy dating back to the 18th century. The family's craftsmanship has left an indelible mark on the world of violin making. The Gagliano family's enduring presence in the world of violin making, spanning nearly two centuries, contributed to Naples becoming a significant hub for violin production. Their instruments, each crafted with a unique style, catered to evolving customer preferences and maintained a reputation for quality and affordability.Violin by Fratelli Gagliano, Naples c.1800

This violin portrays an incredible picture of an important transition chapter in Italian violin-making history. Crafted by the Gagliano brothers Giuseppe, Antonio, and Giovanni, this unbelievably well-preserved violin tells the story of how the makers applied the transition to the modern violin between the 18th and 19th centuries. The three sons of Nicolò Gagliano often worked alone but sometimes made an instrument together, which is the case of this one.

The kind and colour of varnish used was an important feature of this school and a very attractive characteristic of this violin, as it is still barely untouched.

Besides the great quality of the violin itself, this instrument still has its original neck, head, upper block, and nails set aside from the violin. The current modern neck and head are replicas of the original one. This decision was made to preserve the originality of the neck with its head instead of crafting a new neck to it, preserving the possibility of having the violin assembled back again as it was first conceived.LISTEN TO IT

Fratelli Gagliano - Naples, Italy

The Fratelli Gagliano; Giuseppe, Giovanni and Antonio are the sons of Nicolò Gagliano, grandsons of Alessandro Gagliano and nephews of Gennaro. Giuseppe had exceptional talent, while Antonio often collaborated with his brother. Giovanni's instruments stand on their own and are somewhat rare. The Fratelli  Gagliano contributed to the family workshop's rich heritage, producing instruments that are now treasured rarities.

Fratelli Gagliano Influences and Style

The Gagliano family, is a celebrated lineage of Italian violin makers with a legacy dating back to the 18th century. The family's craftsmanship has left an indelible mark on the world of violin making. The Gagliano family's enduring presence in the world of violin making, spanning nearly two centuries, contributed to Naples becoming a significant hub for violin production. Their instruments, each crafted with a unique style, catered to evolving customer preferences and maintained a reputation for quality and affordability.

We are delighted to announce the recent sale of this remarkable violin at Amorim Fine Violins Cremona. Crafted by the esteemed Neapolitan luthiers known as Fratelli Gagliano in Naples in the year 1800, this exquisite instrument embodies centuries of tradition and artistry. The sale of this violin is a momentous occasion for us, as it represents not only Gagliano's family exceptional craftsmanship and legacy but also Naples role in the history of violin-making. We are proud to have facilitated the sale of such a remarkable piece of musical history to its new owner. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events and opportunities to experience other extraordinary instruments from our collection firsthand. We continue our mission to promote the beauty and excellence of fine violins from Cremona to the world.

Italian Fine Violins

If you're interested in rare and historic violins, you should definitely check out our fine instruments session. We have a wide selection of fine violins for sale, and it's well worth browsing our collection to see what we have to offer. Check out our current options for fine violins, violas, and cellos. SEE INSTRUMENTS

Still have Questions

Talk to a specialist about this topic

If anything in this article raised a question — about acquisition, appraisal, provenance or a specific instrument — our team in Cremona is happy to help. No pressure, no obligations.





    Written by

    Luan Amorim

    Luan Amorim is CEO of Amorim Fine Violins and leads the atelier's sales and strategy. An industrial engineer who wrote his university thesis on violin making. He has spent over a decade placing fine Italian instruments with soloists, orchestral players, collectors and institutions across Europe and the Americas, and advises on acquisition, valuation and long-term ownership.

    Speak With Amorim

    Need expert guidance on fine violins?

    Whether you are buying, selling, appraising or researching a fine instrument, Amorim Fine Violins can help you make a more informed decision. Our team in Cremona is available to answer questions of any scale.