Lorenzo Storioni, one of the last great luthiers of Cremona, made instruments that are still highly valued today. Find out more about his unmistakable artistic approach, his lasting influence and why Lorenzo Storioni violins are still in demand among musicians and collectors.
Lorenzo Storioni (1744–1816) was one of the last great violin makers from the Cremonese school, following the golden era of legendary craftsmen like Antonio Stradivari and Giuseppe Guarneri. Born and raised in Cremona, he is widely regarded as a key figure in the world of violin making due to his distinctive approach and innovative techniques. 
Lorenzo Storioni's violins are known for their bold craftsmanship and slightly unconventional designs compared to his predecessors. He embraced a more experimental approach, often departing from the polished, flawless standards of the earlier Cremonese masters. His instruments have a distinctive character with slightly asymmetrical features, giving them a more rugged and individualistic feel. This made his violins stand out and contributed to their enduring appeal among musicians and collectors alike.
Lorenzo Storioni often worked with locally sourced wood, using spruce for the top plate and maple for the back and sides. His violins are noted for their rich, warm sound, which comes from his precise varnishing technique and his ability to work the wood in a way that enhances acoustic resonance. Storioni’s work is also recognizable by its thick, dark varnish, often a reddish-brown or golden color, which added both aesthetic appeal and functional protection.
Storioni's influence on modern violin makers
Though Lorenzo Storioni is sometimes seen as the last link in the chain of Cremonese violin making, his influence continues to reverberate in modern luthiery. His willingness to experiment and break from tradition inspired future generations of violin makers to innovate and develop their own styles while respecting the fundamental principles of sound and construction.
Why Lorenzo Storioni's violins are still sought after
Despite being created over two centuries ago, Storioni's violins are still highly prized by professional musicians and collectors. His instruments, while fewer in number compared to other Cremonese makers, are renowned for their tonal quality and unique aesthetic. Today, Lorenzo Storioni’s violins can be found in the hands of elite performers and are frequently seen at prestigious auctions, fetching high prices.
Are you looking to own a fine violin? Explore our exclusive collection of high-quality violins, including rare pieces inspired by the craftsmanship of Lorenzo Storioni. Click here to discover our collection of fine violins.
Key facts about Lorenzo Storioni:
- Lorenzo Storioni (1744–1816) was a prominent violin maker in Cremona.
- His violins are known for their bold, experimental designs and rich sound.
- Storioni's instruments remain highly valued by musicians and collectors.
- Lorenzo Storioni's violins are a testament to the enduring beauty of Italian luthiery.
Lorenzo Storioni may not be as famous as Stradivari or Guarneri, but his contributions to the art of violin making remain invaluable. His distinctive style, innovative techniques, and lasting influence make him one of the most important figures in the history of string instrument crafting.
