Andrea Castagneri (1696-1747) was an Italian luthier active in Paris. He is the father of the renowned music publisher Marie-Anne Castagneri (1722-1787).
Castagneri moved to Paris around 1720 and received his certificate of violin making from “the maîtres facteurs d'instruments” in 1740. He was hired by the Prince of Carignan and soon after resided at the Hôtel de Soissons which was owned by the prince. He was known for his refined craftsmanship in making and repairing instruments. He also sold Cremona violins and cellos. His brother-in-law Joseph Gaffino bought a large number of his works after his death.
Castagneri’s instruments are considered very special for their representation of both the German and French styles. The edges are very delicately designed, made close to the very outer rim of the body, which shows an influence of the German style. The varnishes are thin, clear and transparent, influenced by the French style, and reveal a refined artistry with colors ranging from a golden yellow-brown to a light, reddish brown: including yellow, yellow-brown, light red, golden red, reddish brown. As for the timbre, Castagneri’s instruments can be described as having a round, solid timbre which is dynamic, robust yet projects clarity. The ribs are made with the inlay rib technique typical of the Belgian system of violin making.
With regards to the design of the label, Castagneri’s label sometimes show a French style with ornate decorations around the logo, while at other times show an Italian style —marked with only the year and place of manufacture and the name of the luthier, without any ornamentation around the logo. Sometimes Castagneri’s label show a combination of the French and Italian styles.
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