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"CARLO ANTONIO TESTORE - Eldest son and pupil of Carlo Giuseppe. Born 1687. Worked at the "Sign of the Eagle" (dell' Aquila), Milan 1710-1765. A more prolific maker than father. Copied the Amati, Stradivarius and Guarnerius, more frequently the latter, in each case with certain modifications not altogether enhancing the general contour. Body length sometimes only 13"" inches. Abundant evidence of rough workmanship, a procedure which seems definitely intended rather than from inability. Scrolls occasionally of really fine shape but more often of the type that merits severe criticism. Purfling generally uncertain in evenness (all the family had this failing), and leaves a disturbing impression. Some instruments have no purfling. Good tone wood for bellies, also excellent material for backs, but seldom finely flamed. Golden-yellow varnish shading into brown, a sort of orange-brown of thick constitution and little gleam. Occasionally a deeper reddish-brown. Tonal quality often quite full and remarkably resonant, but never of true Italian sympathetic timbre. Violas recognized as superior to violins. Cellos yet finer, of full arching, handsome material, and a tonal quality of rich mellowness and far carrying power."
-William Henley, The Universal Dictionary of Violin and Bow Makers
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