Violin Maker
Raffaele Calace
Italy, Naples
Raffaele Calace, a distinguished Neapolitan luthier, was active from around 1900 and crafted violins that embody the rich tradition of Neapolitan violin making. While best known for his work with plucked instruments, his violins showcase broad proportions, low arching, and a warm, resonant sound. His craftsmanship, rooted in the techniques of the Neapolitan school, earned him multiple gold medals in international exhibitions, and he is even said to have made a violin for Mussolini. Though his violin production was limited, Calace’s instruments remain valuable for their tonal depth and historical significance.Read more
Short Bio
Full Name: Raffaele Calace
Highlights
New making style: New
Credentials
Classic Italian Craftsmanship
Modern Neapolitan School of Violin Making
Background as a Musician
Award winner Maker
Locally making
Italy, Naples
Maker Background
Raffaele Calace was born in Naples in 1863 into a family of esteemed instrument makers. While he is widely recognized for his work in plucked instruments, his craftsmanship extended to the violin-making tradition of Naples, a city with a deep and influential history in lutherie. Active from around 1900, Calace crafted violins that, while not as numerous as his mandolins, reflect the distinct Neapolitan style—often featuring broad proportions, low arching, and a straightforward yet refined aesthetic. His approach to violin making aligned with the traditional methods passed down through generations of Neapolitan masters, prioritizing playability and tonal richness.Calace's violins are known for their well-balanced construction, with a full, resonant sound that carries the warmth and depth characteristic of the Neapolitan school. His instruments often feature clean craftsmanship, slightly flatter arching, and a varnish of warm golden to reddish hues. Though his work is sometimes overshadowed by his contributions to plucked instruments, his violins remain sought after, embodying the quality and precision of early 20th-century Neapolitan lutherie.
His talent and dedication to instrument making earned him multiple gold medals in international exhibitions, though the exact details of these awards remain unclear. It is said that he even crafted a violin for Mussolini, further highlighting his reputation in Italy's musical circles.
Raffaele Calace’s legacy as a violin maker is a testament to his versatility and mastery of the craft. His instruments, though produced in smaller numbers, continue to be valued for their rich tonal qualities and historical significance within the Neapolitan violin-making tradition.