Instrument Type: Violin
Circa: 2023
Asking Price: SOLD
Maker: Eric Benning
The Violin
Eric Benning made this Bergonzi violin in Los Angeles in 2023, in the recent years of his career. He based it on a Carlo Bergonzi model. The back is a gorgeous single piece of Bosnian maple from the 1960s. The two-piece top is Northern Italian spruce, also from the 1960s.
A one-piece back gives an unbroken sweep of figure. So the maple reads as one clean surface from end to end. Many players find that look especially striking. On this 2023 Bergonzi violin, Eric Benning let the figure run without a center joint.
The tone is rich and powerful. It also has a beautiful ability to draw colors and depth. The back measures 35.6 cm. Carlo Bergonzi was an Italian maker in Cremona, and his outline remains a favorite with players.
This Eric Benning Bergonzi violin from 2023 suited a player who wants depth of color along with power. Its 1960s wood also brought decades of natural seasoning to a new instrument. That gives the violin a settled foundation for years of playing.
The Maker
Eric Benning has now made over 145 handcrafted stringed instruments. He also serves as the house luthier at Benning Violins in Los Angeles.
His roots run deep. He is a third-generation luthier, and his great-uncle, Carl F. Becker Jr., trained him in the Becker school.
Still, his work looks forward too. Distinguished teachers, soloists and orchestra members seek out his violins, including several from the LA Philharmonic. In 2023, Eric Benning built this Bergonzi violin to pair Italian tradition with his modern ideas about tone.
Terms of Sale
This violin has sold, so it is no longer available for purchase. Benning Violins invites you to browse our current catalog of fine instruments. You can also contact us directly to ask about similar pieces.