Born in 1862 in Bollengo, Ivrea in Northern Italy, Giovanni Gaida trained as a violin-maker in France before going to London in 1890. He returned to his hometown in 1895, but eventually settled in London in 1904 where he worked for the well-known and respected French maker, Frederick William Chanot. He learned much from Chanot with regard to the French violin-making tradition, which can be seen in his scrolls and varnish antiquing, but he also was inspired by his Italian roots and the violins of the master makers, including Stradivari and Landolfi. Because of this, he is known for having a unique and original style and is considered one of the most distinguished makers, along with Bela Szepessy, working in London in the early 1900s. Gaida made this violin later in his career and it has depth and resonance throughout. Its color palette ranges from a rich lower register to a fierce liveliness in the upper strings. It is in pristine condition and would be an ideal violin for the serious or professional player.