Gagliano family of luthiers

There are as many as eighteen violin makers named Gagliano that are known worldwide today. Below are a few of the more recognizable luthiers.

Alessandro Gagliano (c. 1700 - c. 1735) Naples, Italy. As a youth, he 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 [or Alessandro] Gagliano Alumnus Antonio Stradivarius fecit Anno 1722"

Nicolò Gagliano I (c. 1740 - c. 1780) Naples, Italy. He was the eldest son of Alessandro and made many admirable instruments in his long life. His instruments have been often imitated and even occasionally mistaken for those belonging to Stradivari.

Typical label: "Nicolaii Gagliano fecit in Napoli 1711"

Gennaro or Januarius Gagliano (c. 1740 - c. 1780) Naples, Italy. The second son of Allessandro, he created some well-made instruments and had a prominent position in the family.

Fernando Gagliano (c. 1770 - c. 1795) He was the eldest son of Nicolò I and made some magnificent as well as nondescript trade instruments. However, he had a prodigious output of instruments. Occasionally, instruments with his label actually belonged to his father or to his brother.

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