Bow & Bridge Violin and bow makers, as the old books printed them

Books › Dictionary of Violin makers, 1928 › scan 37

Scan 37

Dictionary of Violin makers, 1928

14 lines. Read by computer on 27 September 2026. No printed page number was found. See the scan on archive.org.

1C. Bergonzi, but in reality it was nothing more than a fine instrument by Goffriler. It is probably not the only one, the identity of which has been changed. Be that as it may, we are faced with a great master to whom we are indebted for a number of marvellous instruments. He made several models, usually flat, giving to the inferior part of the body of the instrument in width, whatever the superior lost or gained in length. The sound holes, rather far apart, are very near the edges. The scroll lacks roundness, but at the same time has character. His varnish, always rich and transparent, although thick in places, varies from light red to brown red, sometimes amber yellow, and has a tendency to crackle slightly. As to the tone, it is particularly beautiful, combining refinement and power. Super make. No 13.
3BERGONZI (Michael-Angelo) — Cremona circa 1725-1760. Son and successor of the one preceding. Inferior work to that of his father, pattern either too large or too small. The varnish, although not of bad quality, denotes the beginning of the downfall of the great school.
5BERGONZI (Niccolo) — Cremona circa 1760. Eldest son and pupil of the preceding one. Fairly minute workmanship. Yellow varnish. The scroll is not an achievement. On the whole, less interesting work. No 12.
7BERGONZI (Zozimo) — Cremona circa 1775. Son of Michael-Angelo. Same work as that of his brother Niccolo. His 'cellos are better treated than his violins. No 39.
9BERGONZI (Carlo) — Cremona circa 1790-1820. Son of Michael-Angelo. The quality of his work added nothing to the laurels of the family. Maker of mandolines and guitars. Was more skilful at repairing.
11BERTASIO or BERTASSI (Ambrogio) — Piadena circa 1740. Name mentioned by Vidal in his work. We know nothing by him.
13BERTOLETTI (Antonio) — Brescia circa 1560-1614. Father of Gasparo Bertoletti, called « Gaspard da Salo ». He was a painter and violinist, and is supposed to have made some instruments.

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