David Kerr Violin Shop, Inc
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Giuseppe Ornati Milan, 1923


“In Ornati, elegance and refinement are coupled with a softer style, an expression of force that is even tempered and calm.” Giorgio Grisales

Ornati (1887-1965) was one of the most important Milanese violin makers of his time. He spent his career making instruments and working in the Bisiach workshop, which trained and employed some of Italy’s most renowned makers of the early 20th Century.

As soon as he was old enough to work, Ornati joined a carriage-making workshop and learned the rudiments of woodworking. In his early teens, he turned to instrument making and joined the Bisiach shop. Ornati became a leader in that talent-filled workshop and trained several makers, including Bisiach’s sons. Despite opening his own shop in 1928, Ornati continued doing repair work for the Bisiachs. Near the end of his career, Ornati had an influential tenure at the Cremona Violin Making School.

This cello is a rare example of Ornati’s skill and originality. He made fewer than 20 cellos, and three of those remaining instruments are displayed in museums. He did his best work in the 1920s and 1930s, and this cello was completed in 1923. It bears an original label and Ornati’s personal brands. The condition is near mint, as it has had only one owner for the past 50 years.

Like most of Ornati’s instruments, this cello was inspired by a Stradiveri pattern but has touches of personal style. The wood selection is stunning, with a particularly spectacular maple back. The scroll, f-holes, and edging reflect exceptional craftsmanship and symmetry.
 

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