Italy has long defined the pinnacle of viola making, and Washington Fine Violins is proud to offer a curated selection of instruments that embody this extraordinary tradition. From the revered workshops of Cremona — the historic birthplace of the violin — to the distinguished schools of Florence, Turin, and Mantova, each Italian viola in our collection represents a direct link to centuries of unparalleled craftsmanship.
Italian viola makers approach their work with an almost philosophical dedication to tone, balance, and beauty. The finest Italian instruments are characterized by their responsive projection, warm resonance, and meticulous attention to arching, varnish, and wood selection. Whether a mid-20th century work by a recognized master or a contemporary instrument by a Cremona-trained maker working today, these violas share a common lineage of excellence that serious players and collectors immediately recognize.
Our Italian violas have been personally selected by Jim Kelly, whose 25+ years in the fine instrument trade give him a refined eye and ear for quality. Every instrument is professionally set up and evaluated before being offered for sale. We welcome in-person trials and are happy to facilitate shipping for qualified buyers.
Music has played an integral part in Ada Quaranta’s life since childhood. She began studying the violin at age 10, and later was awarded a Diploma in Violin Performance and an Intermediate Qualification in Viola Performance. In 1988, she attended the Antonio Stradivari International Violin Making School in Cremona. Between 1992 and 1999, Ada pursued […]
Italian Viola by Ada Quaranta, Cuneo, c2025 Read More »
A modern 16 1/2″ Italian viola in excellent condition and bearing the maker’s original. This viola has a big, bright voice, with a crisp clarity to it. It projects quite well. The two-piece back is of richly-hued highly figured maple of broad curl. The two-piece spruce table is of narrow grain. The varnish is a
Italian Viola by Enzo Barbieri, Mantova c1978 Read More »
An exceptional modern Italian viola from the heart of Cremona by Filippo Anselmi. Combining centuries-old hand-craftsmanship with a vibrant, soloist-ready voice, this instrument represents the rising generation of Cremonese masters. Expertly certified with a stunning two-piece back and rich oil varnish.
Italian Viola by Filippo Anselmi, Cremona c2025 Read More »
Jens Gosta Johansson’s many years of making and restoration ebnsure that his instruments which meets the highest standards of the violin craft. He learned his skills in Cremona and was head of the repair department at Kurosawa violin in Tokyo. Before opening Studio Restauro he restored fine violins at Hans Weisshaar Inc. in Los Angeles.
Italian Viola by Jens Johanssen, Cremona Italy c2024, Inspired by Gofriller Read More »
Igino Sderci was born in 1884 in Gaiole in Chianti, Italy. He began to show an interest in music due to the influence of his brother, Don Fortunato, who was an accomplished musician. He was first trained in his wood inlay and carving skills in Siena, Italy, with his relatives in the Corsini family. There,
Italian Viola by Iginius Sderci, Florence Italy c1959 Read More »
Hannibal Fagnola (circa 1870-1940) was a prominent Italian violin maker, renowned for his craftsmanship and contributions to the art of lutherie in the early 20th century. Born in the Piedmont region of Italy, Fagnola developed a passion for string instrument making at a young age, eventually establishing his workshop in Turin. Fagnola’s violins, violas, and
Viola by Hannibal Fagnola, Turin Italy c1925 Read More »
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