Born in Udine, won a degree in mathematics from the University of Padua in 1825. Taught at the Liceo di Porta Nuova in Milan, and later held the chair in physics at the Istituto di Studi Superiori of Florence. Devoted himself to electrology, telegraphy, acoustics, and meteorology. Studied electromagnetic phenomena with Leopoldo Nobili (1784-1835). Built and improved an electromagnetic motor and, in Paris, won a prize for an electromagnetic musical instrument. Between 1859 and 1864, worked with a commission to assemble and classify all the manuscripts and instruments of Alessandro Volta (1745-1827).