Owner: HWMC
Catalog#: 2CL-CHLT-200
Violin Family
'Nicola Gusetto' Violin
Possibly Italy
Not Verified
Wood, ebony, gut & metal strings
ca. Late 19th – Early 20th centuries
Length: 23.35 in; Body of violin: Length: 14.35 in; Width – Upper: 6.5 in; Lower: 8 in; Depth: 1.5 in
Strings – Lutes – Violin Family
Printed inscription inside reads: Nicola Gusetto / Cremona Anno 1785
Presently there is no solid biographical evidence of a luthier named Nicola Gusetto. Historical dictionaries provide conflicting information, and experts on Tariso suggest the name is likely a label for a specific “model” of trade instrument made in Germany or Italy, often dating to the late 19th or early 20th century.
This violin features a narrow one-piece flamed maple back and spruce top. It has purfling around the top and back edges, and unusual cutout sound holes. Stamped on the back just below the button is “GUSETTO”. It is coated in mid-orange/brown varnish and is made in an interesting cornerless design.