Son of Nicola Gagliano and brother of Ferdinando, Antonio and Giovanni, Giuseppe Gagliano was perhaps the most prolific of the third generation of violin makers of this influential Neapolitan family. Stylistically he followed the example of his father and teacher, Nicola, who turned to Stradivari and occasionally to Amati for inspiration. This violin, which is built on a very characterful and generous model, has a rich and brilliant tone.