Dictionary of Makers

Nicola Gagliano was the son ofAlessandro. His violins, together with those of his brother Gennaro, are amongst the most sought-after instruments of the Gagliano family.

 

Although he occasionally copied Amati, the majority of his work shows the influence of Stradivari, who remained the strongest force in the output of the Gaglianos from Nicola's generation on- wards. This is particularly evident in the flat archings and upright

 

In his later years, Nicola sometimes collaborated with his son, Giuseppe, as can be seen in the violin labelled 1744 on pp. 214- 215, which was probably made circa 1770. This instrument also shows clearly the use of beech and paper for the purfling, which was introduced by Gennaro and Nicola, and which was to become a hallmark of the Gagliano family, and indeed of Neapolitan violin making in general.