Gagliano Violin Sells for Record Price at Skinner
Boston, MA - A rare 1709 violin by the Neapolitan maker Alessandro Gagliano sold for a record $200,500 at Skinner’s fall auction of fine musical instruments on November 7. According to department director David Bonsey, "Surviving work by Alessandro Gagliano in this condition is extremely rare, and even rarer is finding a violin like this whose string length has not needed alteration to modern specifications." Adding to the value and attraction of the instrument, it was marked by a plentiful supply of Gagliano’s distinctive fiery golden-red varnish, and it had been in private hands for over 40 years.
The auction featured a fine selection of violins by later Neapolitan makers strongly influenced by Gagliano. These included a 1759 example by Gennaro Vinaccia that sold for $27,600, and a 1905 instrument made by Vincenzo Sannino that realized $25,300. A 1780 violin by Tomasso Eberle reached $23,000. Additional highlights included a French violin attributed to Pierre Sylvestre that sold for $23,000. Leading the auction’s violas, a 1910 instrument by Romeo Antoniazzi garnered $34,500. In a more unusual vein, a very fine late 17th century pocket fiddle or "pochette" by the Tyrolian maker Matthias Worle generated interest. Exquisitely veneered in ivory and tortoiseshell with a maiden’s head carved in ivory, it easily outdistanced expectations selling for $8,625.
Several very fine French bows also contributed to the success of the sale. These were led by a gold mounted violin bow by Jean-Marie Persois that sold for a record $49,450. The previous record for the maker was $20,165. Other examples included two silver mounted violoncello bows by Eugene Sartory, one selling for $13,800 and the other for $11,500. A fine silver mounted bow by Joseph Henry sold for $12,650, and two silver mounted bows by François Nicolas Voirin realized $7,495 and $6,900 respectively.
Offering a selection of fretted instruments as well, the auction featured several fine guitars and mandolins. Highlights included an 1935 "Exel" model acoustic guitar by John D’Angelico of New York with a carved arched top that sold for $8,050. Additional highlights included a tenor banjo by Gibson that sold high for $4,255 and an Italian lute that realized $3,450.
Skinner’s next auction of fine musical instruments will be held in Boston on Sunday, May 7. For further information, telephone David Bonsey at (978) 779-6241 or fax (978) 779-5144.