Jules Joseph Grandjon

History

Jules Joseph Grandjon (1824-?) was born in Mirecourt, France, in 1824. He was the son of Prosper Gérard Grandjon, also a maker. Before establishing his factory in Mirecourt, he worked for an extended period in Paris, specifically on Boulevard Sébastopol, and later maintained a branch office there. From 1847 to 1852, he worked in Amsterdam, succeeding the business of his brother, L. Grandjon. Around 1850, he established a successful factory in Mirecourt.

Craft

• Innovation: Jules Joseph Grandjon conducted various experiments and made inventions, including a violin with a detachable neck.
• Design Philosophy: He ultimately decided on a large model, which was primarily used in his factory. He specialized in decorated and eccentric models, as well as conventional classical designs, typically of a large form.
• Varnish: He predominantly used a strong red varnish, also described as bright red lacquer.

Influence

• Family Lineage: Jules Joseph Grandjon was the son of Grandjon, sen., who was also a maker at Mirecourt.
• Business Succession: He succeeded to the business of his brother, L. Grandjon, in Amsterdam between 1847 and 1852.

Legacy

• Awards & Recognition: Jules Joseph Grandjon received medals at both the Paris and London Exhibitions. He was awarded a medal of the 1st class at the Paris Exhibition in 1855, a bronze medal in 1867, and a "Mention honorable" in 1878.

Further Information

• Workshop Locations: He worked in Paris (Boulevard Sébastopol and Rue Réaumur 74), Amsterdam, and established a factory in Mirecourt (Vosges).
• Labels & Branding: His instruments bore labels such as "Breveté J. Grandjon à Paris J.G. / S.G.D.G. Fabrique de Mirecourt (Vosges) / 103 Boulevard Sébastopol et Rue Réaumur 74."

Summary

Jules Joseph Grandjon (1824-?) was a French violin maker born in Mirecourt. He worked in Paris and Amsterdam, succeeding his brother's business, before establishing a successful factory in Mirecourt around 1850. Known for his innovative experiments, including a violin with a detachable neck, he specialized in large-form instruments, often featuring a strong red varnish. Grandjon received several accolades, including a 1st class medal at the 1855 Paris Exhibition, a bronze medal in 1867, and a "Mention honorable" in 1878.