ガブリエリ
Worked at Florence, 1736-1787.
Variety is the peculiar feature of these violins, and sometimes we cannot altogether admire some of the styles.
Pattern always just under full normal size Arching, of the different periods, oscillates between the very high and the medium – the former being a phantasy we have no special regard for; ribs often shallow.
General measurements:
body length, 34.7 cm.;
upper bouts, 16.3;
middle, 11.5;
lower, 20.2.
Scrolls not particularly graceful and often appearing too large to be in complete harmony with general build of instrument.
Sound-holes oddly at variance with true artistry though they frequently have the style of a Stainer.
Workmanship generally bears the impress of neatness and gives a feeling of something rather good notwithstanding the peculiarities of the modelling.
Very lucky in choice of wood, the backs and ribs usually of a straightish and close figure, but rather pretty.
Varnish most often of a transparent and brilliant yellow shade, rather lacking softness occasionally a light brown or orange red of warmer nature.
Tonal quality never dissatisfies. Not large, certainly, but instead we get a bell-like clarity that penetrates anywhere.
Some connoisseurs state the tone is somewhat nasal, but we have never heard anything of the kind coming from a Gabrielli.
Tone of the flatter instruments is of Gagliano timbre.
Popularity of both types amply furnished by the fact that often we hear of amateurs expending as much as ￡100 (1925) for one.
Violas nearly always of the flatter modelling, and have a rounder, harmonious, and more composite appearance than the violins.
Body length 15-1/2 inches; sometimes 14-1/2.
Principal characteristics – fine grain spruce, rather plain maple, and dark orange varnish.
’Cellos pretty well exquisite idealisms in appearance and tone, soloists employ much praise concerning them. Labels – written and printed.
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Joannej Baptistae da Gabrielis
Florentinuj fecit 1739
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Gio. Batista de Gabriello
fece in Firenze 1754
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Joannes Baptista de Gabbrielli
Florentinus fecit 1743
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(sometimes three lined)
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Gio. Battista.
Gabbrielli. Firenze
Ammo 1762
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Giov. Bapt. Gabicelli
fiorentini fecit 1740
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Sometimes branded “G.B.G.” or “I.B.G.”
Name sometimes given as Garbicelli and Gabbicellis. ￡350 (1959).