Gagliano family


Gagliano is the name of a famous family of Italian luthiers from Naples, dating back to the early 18th century. The Gagliano dynasty – particularly Alessandro, Nicolò I and Gennaro – are considered the high point of Neapolitan violin making. There are as many as eighteen Gagliano violin makers known worldwide today. Below is a family tree of a few of its most recognizable luthiers.

Alessandro Gagliano

Naples, Italy. As a youth, Alessandro worked in the shops of famed luthiers Nicolo Amati and Antonio Stradivari. After returning to Naples from Cremona, he became the founder of the Neapolitan school. Authentic examples of his instruments in good condition are scarce. A few violas, cellos, one double bass, and several violins have survived.
  • Typical label:

Alexandri Gagliano

Alumnus Antonio Stradivarius

fecit Anno 1722

Nicolò Gagliano I

Naples, Italy. Nicolò Gagliano was the eldest son of Alessandro and is generally considered the most famous luthier of the Gagliano family. He made many admirable instruments in his long life. His instruments have often been copied or imitated, and were occasionally even mistaken for those of Antonio Stradivari.
  • Typical labels:

Nicolaii Gagliano fecit

in Napoli 1711


or


Nicolaus Gagliano filius

Alexandri fecit Neap. 1752

Gennaro Gagliano

Naples, Italy. The second son of Alessandro, Gennaro created some well-made instruments and had a prominent position in the family.

Ferdinando Gagliano

Naples, Italy. Ferdinando was the eldest son of Nicolò I, although probably taught by his uncle Gennaro. He made some magnificent as well as undistinguished instruments. However, he had a prodigious output of instruments. Occasionally, instruments with his label were actually made by his father or his brother.
Labels:
Ferdinandus Gagliano Filius / Nicolai, Fecit Neap. 17..
Ferdinando Gagliano, me fecit / Neapoli, anno 17..