Matthias (II) Albani

ALBANI, Matthias (II) Born 1634 Calduro (Kaltern), died 1712 Bolzano Italy. Presumed son and pupil of Matthias Albani (I), above, but usually conflated with him. Apprenticed to Martino Arz in Rome in 1664, worked for Andrea Portoghesi in 1666. Established in Bolzano c.1671, and recorded at that time as a violin maker. Earliest known work dates from c.1683. His style is very original and Italianate, possibly reflecting his early experience in Rome. Much of the work attributed to him seems either to be that of his sons Michael and Joseph under his name, or inferior German copies of later date. His influence goes beyond that of his immediate family to the Jais family in Bolzano, and Mayr in Salzburg. One authenticated label of J.E.Steger implies that he was a pupil of Matthias, but there is currently no known historical or stylistic link between the two makers. Matthias own work is very cleanly finished and on an Amatisé model, quite differentiated from other Tyrolean work. Rich red-brown varnish of excellent consistency, often with deeply crackled texture; frequently mistaken for Venetian. De Piccolellis reports a cello with carved dragon’s head. Forino cites a violin anachronistically labelled; Mattio Albano fece in Rome. 1684 More common forms; Mattio Alban fecit Bolzan. 1702 Mattio Alban. fecit Bolzen. 1700 [Lebet, Beare]

Son of [Mathias Albani], This maker should, perhaps, have been classed with those of Italy, his style being Italian; but as he was the son of the well-known German maker, it was thought best that his name should follow that of his father under the head of German makers. The son has shown but faint marks of having been tutored by his parent in the art of Violin making. He is said to have visited Cremona, in order to receive instruction there under Amati, and this circumstance may have given to his work that Italian air which is so pleasing to the connoisseur. This maker is often credited with the work of the elder Albani, it having been supposed that there was but one of that name. The model is good, and the workmanship throughout demands high praise. Gerber states that the famous Violinist, Tomaso Albinoni, possessed two Violins of this maker, dated 1702 and 1709.

Son and pupil of Mathias Albani; b. 1650, Botzen ; d. about 1715. Settled in Rome, probably remained in Cremona studying under the Amatis for some time, on his way there. His instruments follow the Amati pattern, and show beautiful varnish and finished workmanship. Three violins known are dated respectively 1702, 1709, 1712. In a pochette was the label, “Mathias Albanus, 1680.” In Rome the label used was, ” Mattia Albano, face in Roma, 16 – .”