Ignazio Argento

History

Ignazio Argento (1917-Unknown) was born in 1917 in Oakland, California, USA. According to The Brompton's Book of Violin & Bow Makers by John Dilworth, he was a musician who transitioned into an amateur maker following his retirement in 1975. He received instruction from Niels Van Valkenburgh.

Craft

• Models: Ignazio Argento crafted instruments based on Stradivari and Guarneri models.
• Varnish: He utilized commercially prepared oil varnish for his instruments.
• Output: Argento is credited with producing 36 violins, six violas, and three bows.

Influence

• Mentorship: Ignazio Argento was a pupil of Niels Van Valkenburgh.

Further Information

• Label Inscription: His labels included the inscription "Ignazio Argento / N.. 19.. N / Oakland, California" as documented by Wenberg.

Summary

Ignazio Argento (b. 1917) was an American amateur violin and bow maker from Oakland, California, who began his craft after retiring in 1975. A pupil of Niels Van Valkenburgh, he is known for making 36 violins, six violas, and three bows, primarily using Stradivari and Guarneri models with commercially prepared oil varnish.