Facsimile of a printed ticket:
STRADIVARIUS, FRANCISCO, Cremona, born 1671, died 1743. STRADIVARIUS, OMOBONO, born 1679, died 1742. These two were sons and pupils of the great Stradivarius, and the only members who followed their father’s calling, with whom they worked until his death; the father during the latter period of his life, signing the instruments “sub disciplinâ Antonii Stradivarius.” After the death of their illustrious father, they each worked on their own account. Francisco is reputed to have manufactured some good violins from 1725 to 1740; his brother chiefly occupying himself in repairing. The productions, however, of these two brothers sink into insignificance when compared with those of their renowned father.
TECHLER, DAVID, Rome, 1680-1740. He is said by some to be a pupil of Stainer, from the fact that he produced instruments of that type. He first worked at Salzburg, then at Venice, and finally at Rome, where he gained much experience. Instruments of this latter city are of the Italian model. His work proves him to have been a careful and studious maker. The varnish is usually deep yellow. Label:
TESTORE, CARLO GUISEPPE, Cremona. Flourished 1690-1720. He produced instruments of good quality both as regards finish and tone; his model being Guarnerius. His instruments are eagerly sought after by those who desire to become possessed of a good old Italian instrument, but are unwilling or unable to give a fancy price. These instruments are, however, gradually rising in value.
TESTORE, CARLO ANTONIO, Milan, 1730, and TESTORE, PAOLO ANTONIO, Milan, 1740, sons of Carlo Guiseppe. They made excellent instruments after the model of their father, and the tone is good. Paolo frequently left his instruments unpurfled.
