Lorenzo Storioni

Violin maker
(1744 – 1816)

Though opinions of his work vary, Lorenzo Storioni merits high praise for helping to keep the great Cremonese tradition of violin making afloat in the late 18th century. An admiration for the work of Guarneri 'del Gesù' is evident, but in general Storioni followed 'del Gesù's spirit of individuality more than he copied his or any other maker's instruments. Some of his instruments appear rough, with brittle varnish, and his materials were not always of the highest quality, but many of his works are exceptionally proportioned. They are well regarded for their brilliant, powerful sound.

Notable traits include deep channeling at the edges, tilted f-holes, and large scrolls. Storioni left Cremona around 1802 for uncertain reasons, and may have traveled to Venice, Trieste and possibly further east into modern-day Croatia before returning around 1810. Historical evidence suggests he continued to work as a violin maker, but no instruments dated after 1804 are known.

~ Tarisio

This spectacular instrument is on generous loan from a private donor.