Giulio Degani Violin Venice 1902

This violin was made by Giulio Degani in year 1902 in Venice. Guilio Degani, son and student of the highly sought-after maker Eugenio Degani, was born in Montagnana in 1875, and after spending some time working in his father's workshop in Venice he eventually took it over in 1901. In his early years, his instruments were quite closely modelled after his father's, and though his instruments did diverge and become more individual over time, they often keep the relatively shallow ribs and deeper arching that were characteristic of Eugenio. In 1915, he emigrated to America, working in Cincinnati, New York, and Atlantic City, running his own workshop and spending some time in other factories as well.

This violin is labelled "Degani Giulio di Eugenio / premiato con gran diploma d'onore in Milano / e medaglia d'oro in Torino / Anno 1902 / Fecit in Venezia". The body measures 358mm along the back, 163mm across the upper bouts and 203mm across the lower bouts. It has a two-piece back of lightly flamed maple with an even, medium curl, and matching ribs and scroll. The top is a finely grained spruce, and the violin is fitted with ebony, with an amber-brown varnish. It is in good condition and comes with a certificate of authenticity by Peter Biddulph.

It has a warm, whole sound, which projects with ease, and lends itself to a rich Italian cantabile in all registers. Most suitable for players at a professional level, its character would excel in solo or chamber situations, and having a balanced feeling of tension across the strings to adds to its playability. It has a quick action and response, and its warmth and resonance makes long, legato lines a real strength on this instrument. 

Please contact us if you would like to book an appointment to try this beautiful Italian violin!