Born in 1738 as the first son of Nicola, the second head of the Gagliano family, Ferdinando learned violin making from his uncle Gennaro. It has been said that Ferdinando made violins by himself while Nicola’s other sons, Guiseppe, Antonio and Giovanni, collaborated in the making. Ferdinando, while following the tradition of Naples and Cremona, continued his own style through to the end. The art style is far different from the others in the family.

This violin of 1777 is after his father Nicola’s model, but the arch is slightly richer and steadier than Nicola’s favorite style, which boasts a perfect proportion.

The small and delicately expressed scroll and the sharp wings of f-holes tell his outstanding craftsmanship. Clad in soft golden yellow varnish that is slightly more moderate than the other Gagliano families’, it sounds delicate but rich with focused strength.

Please take a look at this excellent piece of Naples artwork of the 18th century.