12 Unforgettable Violins Meticulously Decorated by Hand

Edited By: Natalia J.

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Few man-made objects are as graceful and elegant as classic string instruments like the cello or the violin. These statuesque instruments are just as pleasing to the eye as they are to the ear, but this Italian artist found a way to render them even more precious and beautiful. Leonardo Frigo is a talented artist from Italy, who creates illustrations with deep meaning on string instruments. Admire his works and learn more about the artist’s craft below as we showcase 12 stunning artworks by the artist.

Image Source: Leonardo Frigo/ Instagram

After learning how to restore violins and other instruments without harming the instrument’s sound and longevity at an art university in Venice for five years, Leonardo Frigo started experimenting with the embellishment of these precious instruments.

Image Source: Leonardo Frigo/ Instagram

Over time, he perfected this unique technique and started decorating violins and cellos with narrative designs, quotes, and other decorative elements, turning the musical instruments into legitimate storybooks.

Image Source: Leonardo Frigo/ Instagram

Understandably, each of his projects takes up to a month to complete, as the process requires mapping out the illustrations, removing the varnish, decorating the instrument, and then revarnishing and reattaching the strings.

Image Source: Leonardo Frigo/ Instagram

Frigo favors immortal themes in his narrative illustrations, like the four seasons or religious themes and motifs, e.g. the 7 deadly sins.

Image Source: Leonardo Frigo/ Instagram

Currently, the artist works on his biggest project to date - the illustration of 33 violins to depict the events of Dante Alighieri’s Inferno. The artist plans on finishing the project by 2021 to honor the 700-year anniversary of the great Italian poet’s death.

Image Source: Leonardo Frigo/ Instagram

The works of Frigo have earned wide acclaim across the globe, with exhibitions of his instruments being exhibited in Italy, France, England, and even South Korea. You can find more of Leonardo Frigo's artworks by visiting his Website or Instagram Page. The short video documentary below provides an extra glimpse of the artist's life and work.