Description: this violin is a fine old Italian instrument, the work of Gaetano Santagiuliana of Vicenza, whose label it bears dated 1790. It is a fine and characteristic example of the maker’s work.
Measurements: 35.2cm in length of body, with widths of 16.2cm and 20.2cm.
Violin maker: Santagiuliana, Gaetano. Born circa. 1760 Venice, d. after 1830 Vicenza Italy. Probably a pupil of Giorgio Serafin. Guitar and violin maker. Especially well-regarded double basses. Established in Vicenza from 1781. Fine work. Full arching. Dark brown or golden lemon-yellow varnish; quite hard. Cajectanus / Santagiuliana / fecit Vicentiae, anno 1804 [Pio]. [John Dilworth]
I feel extremely privileged to be able to perform on a wonderful Santagiuliana violin and am sincerely grateful to the Harrison-Frank Family Foundation for this generous loan. The instrument is a constant source of pleasure and discovery, and is a great support to my performing career.
Alessandro Ruisi, September 2017