Giuseppe Fiorini (1861–1934): Master Luthier and Guardian of Stradivari’s Legacy
Giuseppe Fiorini was an Italian luthier renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship and pivotal role in reviving Italian violin making. Born in Bazzano, Emilia-Romagna, he trained under his father, Raffaele Fiorini, and crafted his first violin at 16. Establishing his workshop in Bologna in 1877, he gained international recognition, earning top awards at exhibitions.
In 1888, Fiorini moved to Munich, where he co-founded Rieger & Fiorini and later became a leader in the German Violin Makers’ Society. After World War I, he worked in Zurich before settling in Rome in 1923, hoping to establish a violin-making school. Though declining eyesight ended his career, his contributions continued through mentorship, training renowned luthiers like Ansaldo Poggi and Simone Fernando Sacconi.
His greatest legacy was in 1920, when he acquired and later donated Antonio Stradivari’s workshop tools, molds, and drawings to Cremona, laying the foundation for the Museo del Violino and the city’s violin-making revival. With an output of over 500 violins, 10 violas, and 10 cellos, mostly inspired by Stradivari, Fiorini’s instruments remain highly regarded for their tonal quality.
He was honored with the title of Cavaliere in 1927 and passed away in Munich in 1934, leaving a lasting impact on the art of lutherie.
