Enrico Rocca

Life

Enrico ROCCA (1847-1915) was born in Turin on April 25, 1847, and died in Genoa on June 7, 1915. He was the son, pupil, and assistant of Giuseppe Antonio Rocca. Around 1860, he moved with his family to Genoa, where he worked as a carpenter at the docks until 1878. He subsequently took up violin making, utilizing his father's tools and patterns. Although not as successful or prolific as his father, his work is generally considered to be of a slightly lower order. Nevertheless, he achieved success at numerous competitions and exhibitions, all of which were enumerated on his later labels. Most of his instruments are dated from approximately 1900.

Characteristics

Workmanship

His work is generally considered to be of a slightly lower order compared to his father's.

Varnish

He applied a fine shaded varnish, ranging from golden to red-brown, and a good quality gold-yellow varnish.

Patterns

He worked on the pattern of Guarneri, creating fine copies.

Branding

His instruments were branded internally.

Output

He was a skillful violin and mandolin maker.

Influence and legacy

• Family Influence: He was the son, pupil, and assistant of Giuseppe Antonio Rocca.
• Recognition: Enrico Rocca was successful at numerous competitions and exhibitions, which were listed on his labels.
• Market Value: His instruments are particularly valued in England.

Further Information

• Workshop Location: He worked in Genoa.
• Labels: His printed labels read: "Rocca Enrico fu Giuseppe / Premiato alle Esposizioni / Milano 1881, Arezzo 1882, Torino 1884 / Bologna 1888, Palermo 1892 / Genova 2 Medaglie 1892-93 / Fecit in Genova. Anno Domini 1896 I.H.S."