Timed

Instruments from the Workshop of Antonio Donato, New York - 18th March

Start date Wednesday 25 February 2026 End date Wednesday 18 March 2026

ANTONIO DONATO


Born in Sicily and raised in Genoa during the turbulent war years, Mr. Donato’s journey into craftsmanship began at the age of 12. Apprenticed under Giovanni Lentini, he first mastered the art of furniture making; however, it was the occasional instrument repair in Lentini’s workshop that sparked a lifelong passion for the violin.


In 1963, Mr. Donato immigrated to the United States. While working with various musical retailers, he began dedicated study into the construction of fine stringed instruments. His craft was deeply shaped by his close friendship and mentorship with the renowned maker Luis Bellini in Queens, New York - a professional bond that lasted until Bellini’s passing.


Today, Mr. Donato is a distinguished Life Member of the Violin Society of America (VSA). His instruments are celebrated internationally, earning prestigious awards for tone and sound quality at both the VSA and Cremona competitions. His violins are currently held and performed by numerous professional players worldwide.


Alongside a selection of antique instruments, bidders will have the rare opportunity to bid on six original works by Mr. Donato, all generously offered without reserve so that every bidder has a chance to secure one.


VIEWING INFORMATION

Amati London - By Appointment

Monday 9th to Wednesday 18th March

Appointments available between 10am to 4pm 

10A Chandos Street, London, W1G 9DQ


For auction and viewing enquiries please email elena@amati.com


Buyers' Fee is 22% and VAT may be applicable.



SHIPPING ZONES

Zone 1 - UK  |  Zone 2 - Europe  | Zone 3 - US/Canada  | Zone 4 - International

Please note shipping rates are for guidance only.

Page:

of 3

Lots per page:

Total lots: 64

Lot Title Estimate Bid Ends
1 A cello, France, circa 1900 £10 - £20 £20 View
2 A cello, labelled John Juzek £10 - £20 £10 View
3 A cello, France, circa 1900 £10 - £20 £30 View
4 A cello, Germany, circa 1920 £10 - £20 £10 View
5 A violin by William J. Huggler, New York, 1991 £10 - £20 £10 View
6 A violin, 18th Century
Top by another hand
£10 - £20 £10 View
7 A violin, early 20th Century £10 - £20 £20 View
8 A violin by Antonio Donato, New York, 2007 £10 - £20 £20 View
9 A violin, labelled [faintly] £10 - £20 £20 View
10 A violin, Germany, 18th Century
Head not original
£10 - £20 £20 View
11 A violin, France, circa 1920 £10 - £20 £10 View
12 A violin, 19th Century £10 - £20 £10 View
13 A violin, Germany, 20th Century £10 - £20 £10 View
14 A violin, 20th Century £10 - £20 £10 View
15 A violin, labelled Johann Gottlob Guetter £10 - £20 £10 View
16 A violin, Germany, 20th Century £10 - £20 £10 View
17 A violin by Louis Lowendahl, Berlin, circa 1910 £10 - £20 £20 View
18 A violin, Germany, 20th Century £10 - £20 £10 View
19 A violin by Antonio Donato, New York, 2006 £10 - £20 £20 View
20 A violin by Mathias Thoma, Germany £10 - £20 £10 View
21 A violin, 20th Century £10 - £20 £20 View
22 A violin, labelled Antonius Stradiuarius £10 - £20 £10 View
23 A violin, labelled Joh. Bapt. Schweitzer £10 - £20 £20 View
24 A violin, Workshop of Breton Brevete, Mirecourt £10 - £20 £10 View

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