This ocarina was made by the great master and inventor of the ocarina himself Giuseppe DONATI (1836-1925). Donati lived and worked in his hometown of Budrio at the outset of his career as an ocarina maker.

He moved to Bologna in 1878 where he lived and worked. In 1904 he opened a branch in Milan. His plans were to expand his production and sales. He moved his home and workshop to Milan in 1907. Donati faced competition in Italy by other makers such as Antonio Canella. He also had international competitors in Austria and France. Things didn’t go well for Donati and he ended up with family problems and financial difficulties. His wife died and he followed at the age of 89 in Milan in 1925.

This ocarina has been formed by hand and not using a press, which was how they were made later. This is evident by the fact that the form is not even or symmetrical.  This original and rare Donati ocarina has nine holes. When all the holes are covered, it plays E-flat.

In terms of condition, this instrument has some issues. There are chips to the both extremities, which can be restored. These chips do not affect the playing quality of the instrument. It plays very nicely, with a warm and clear sound.