Gaetano Antoniazzi (1825–1897) was a pivotal Italian luthier who served as the critical link between the classical Cremonese tradition and the emergence of the modern Milanese school. While he was born in Cremona, his move to Milan in 1870 fundamentally reshaped Italian violin making for the 20th century. He received his training in violin making from the Ceruti family, specifically Enrico Ceruti and his father Giuseppe. He trained his sons, Riccardo and Romeo, who became two of the most influential luthiers of their era.Along with his sons, Gaetano played a major role in the training of Leandro Bisiach. Together, they created a workshop model that became the standard for modern Italian training and practice.
Instruments by Gaetano Antoniazzi are rare, particularly those made before his move to Milan, as he did not begin signing his work until approximately 1870.