Giuseppe Ornati – Violin Maker (1887 – 1965)
Considered one of the finest makers of the modern Milanese school, Giuseppe Ornati, born in Milan in 1887, began his career at a very young age, making plucked instruments such as mandolins and guitars before making his first violin at the age of 13. He studied with Carlo Moneta prior to joining the workshop of Leandro Bisiach, Sr. in 1903, working alongside Gaetano Sgarabotto and Bisiach’s sons.
Despite the influence of Bisiach on his work, Ornati developed his own approach, partially inspired by the classical style. His early pieces displayed deep channeling at the edges and elongated corners, along with a reddish-orange varnish.
Ornati earned numerous awards, including multiple gold medals and first prizes in regional and national competitions. Prior to his death in 1965, he taught at the violin-making school in Cremona from 1961 to 1963.
