Violin by Pierre Gaggini, Nice, 1936

About Pierre Gaggini

Pierre Gaggini was the nephew and pupil of Alberto Blanchi, serving his apprenticeship in his uncle’s workshop before moving to Paris in 1924. After three years in the French capital, he returned to Nice in 1927 to rejoin the family workshop, eventually establishing his own business there in 1934.

A prolific and accomplished maker, Gaggini was awarded medals at several international exhibitions during his career. His instruments are characterised by confident workmanship and great beauty of execution: as befits a maker from Nice, they represent a fascinating blend of Italian flair and French precision!

About the violin

This violin was made in Nice in 1936. The model shows the influence of his uncle and teacher, Alberto Blanchi.

The violin has a two-piece back of quarter-sawn maple, the flame descending from the centre joint. The ribs and scroll are of similar wood and the front is two pieces of straight-grained spruce of varying widths. The varnish is a shaded golden-red in colour.

The violin has a length of back of 359 mm.

How does it sound?

This is an enormously interesting violin! The sound is very pure, and best described as silvery. Unlike many instruments on the purer end of the spectrum, it has a very meaty lower register and really allows you to dig into the string without the sound spoiling. It's great fun to play.

Condition

The violin is in very good condition.

More information

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