Born in 1851 in the village of Spilamberto, between Modena and Bologna, Giovanni Cavani probably began making instruments as a self-taught, even if he later collaborated with the Milanese atelier of Leandro Bisiach.
However, his style remained strongly anchored to the Emilian tradition. Cavani used various types of models, although his preferred pattern was probably the Guarneri del Gesù; his corners are usually thin and elongated, with a narrow fluting and a well-rounded edge. The design of his soundholes is typically Emilian as well, with soft, tapered stems and slightly oval holes. The volute is usually quite deeply carved, with a small chamfer and a rounded eye. Giovanni Cavani died in 1936 but his activity was continued by his son Vincenzo.
