Enrico Marchetti, Strad Magazine Article
Discover the craftsmanship of one of Italy’s most intriguing violin makers in this feature on Enrico Marchetti. Bridging the traditions of 19th-century Turin and the evolving styles of the early 20th century, Marchetti’s work reflects both precision and artistic individuality. This article takes a closer look at his life, influences, and legacy, while highlighting a beautifully preserved viola from his celebrated “golden period”—offering insight into the subtle details that define exceptional lutherie.
Instrument & Bow of the Month – March 2026
Violin by Vincenzo Sannino, C1910/20
Vincenzo Sannino, born in Naples in 1879, initially trained as a violinist at the city’s conservatory, where he likely encountered local makers such as Giuseppe Desiato and Francesco Verzella. However, the strongest influence on his development as a luthier came from Giovanni Tedesco. A decisive moment in his career occurred when he met the German dealer Fridolin Hamma, whom he accompanied on trips across Italy, broadening his exposure to a wide range of classical Italian models beyond the Neapolitan tradition.
Sannino’s work is particularly recognizable in his scrolls, featuring an elongated pegbox and a refined volute that finishes high at the eye. His f-holes are similarly elongated, with oval apertures and gently fluted wings. He often used purfling with a dark central strip, and his varnish is of fine quality, frequently with an antiqued appearance. His instruments reflect a blend of regional character and broader Italian influence.
This violin is a really fine example of his work..it’s trying hard to be an old violin but not quite there! The scroll really gives it away…too thought out. The label states, made by David Pizzurnuss of Genoa 1772….who as ever heard of him!! Not me! But a great violin with lots of attitude . Certificate from J&A Beare.
Violin bow by E.A.Ouchard, 1924 EXPO
Émile Auguste Ouchard (1900–1969), known as E.A. Ouchard, was one of the most important French bow makers of the twentieth century. Born in Mirecourt into a family of archetiers, he was the son of Émile François Ouchard and received his early training in the strong Mirecourt tradition. He later worked in Paris with leading firms, including the prestigious atelier of Maison Caressa & Français, where he refined his style and built an international reputation.
After World War II, Ouchard returned to Mirecourt and became a leading teacher, influencing a new generation of French bow makers. Today, E.A. Ouchard bows are highly regarded by professional string players for their authority of sound and dependable handling, and they remain an important link in the lineage of modern French bow making.
This violin bow is extremely interesting in that it was made for Victor Fetique to use in the 1924 Expo! The show case worldwide of the maker’s work! Imagine getting someone else to make your bows…and pass it off as your own. This bow has a Cabinet Raffin certificate, and its in mint condition.
Come and try this fine violin and bow………..
Carlo Antonio Testore, Strad Magazine Article
Italian violas of the 17th and 18th centuries are rare. For reasons unknown, composers neglected the viola in this time and so did makers. Antonio Stradivari made more than 600 violins but only around twelve violas. For today’s violinist, the early instruments that do exist are either too small or too large (although, of course, many have now been cut down).
A fine violin by Carlo Giuseppe Oddone, Turin, 1927 and 2 Sartory viola bows!
CG Oddone (1866-1935) is today regarded as one of the finest makers from Turin in the early 20th century (and late 19th). He studied with Benedetto Gioffredo-Rinaldi for 8 years, he then worked in London for a few before returning to Turin. His instruments are never antiqued and show a lot of personality.
This 1927 violin is a fine example of his later work. Made on a somewhat Stradivari model, yet his typical slighty clenched scroll with black chamfers, a one piece back..the overall feeling is power and beauty. While I used to love the Bologna makers…these days I have moved to Turin with the makers, Marchetti, Fagnola and Oddone. We are lucky to have examples of all these makers available.
Eugene Sartory is today regarded as the finest 20th Century bow maker. We are lucky here to have 2 examples of his fine viola bows. One, with a straight frog, is his early 1900/10 period…similar to Lamy, but perhaps with more visual power! The other bow, circa 1915 , is a typical example of his standard viola bow. Both these bows come from great backgrounds…one is ex London Symphony…the other 2nd generation French violin maker collection!
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