Pierre Pacherele

History

Pierre Pacherele (1803-1871) was born in Mirecourt in 1803 and died in Nice, France, on December 31, 1871. He was a fellow-apprentice of J. B. Vuillaume in Mirecourt and remained his trusted friend throughout his life. Around 1830, he moved to Paris, then went to Nice around 1840. He also spent time in Genoa and Turin, where he worked with the violin maker Pressenda. He returned to Nice in 1849, though he maintained connections with Turin and made several trips back and forth up to 1854. John Dilworth notes that he was active in Turin from 1822, established there in 1826, and briefly in Geneva before returning to Turin around 1828.

Craft

• Workmanship: Pierre Pacherele's work is characterized by great care and accurate finishing, using excellent materials. George Hart notes his good workmanship, while Cecie Stainer also highlights the good workmanship of his many violins, altos, and violoncellos.
• Models: He frequently took Stradivari as his model, making many copies.
• Varnish: His varnish is often described as not transparent enough, frequently too thick, dull, and intransparent, typically dark red in color.
• Repairs: He was highly esteemed as a repairer of instruments.
• Influence: Some of his instruments show the distinct influence of Pressenda, featuring broad edges, extended purfling mitres, and a slightly heavy scroll.
• Signatures: Some instruments are signed internally.

Influence

• Training: Pierre Pacherele was a fellow-apprentice of J. B. Vuillaume in Mirecourt.
• Collaboration: He assisted Pressenda in Turin up to 1849.
• Assistance: In Nice, he was aided by Augustin Blanchi.

Further Information

• Labels: His instruments bear both manuscript and printed labels, such as "Pierre Pacharel / Luthier / Nice 18.. [Blot IV]".
• Family Connections: He is presumed by John Dilworth to be the grandson of Michel Pacherele, and George Hart states he was probably related to Michel Pacherele.

Summary

Pierre Pacherele (1803-1871) was a French violin maker born in Mirecourt and active in various European cities, including Paris, Nice, Genoa, Turin, and Geneva. A fellow-apprentice and lifelong friend of J. B. Vuillaume, he was known for his prolific output, often copying Stradivari models with great care and using excellent materials. While his workmanship was highly regarded, his varnish was frequently criticized for being too thick and intransparent. He was also highly esteemed as a repairer of instruments and collaborated with Pressenda in Turin.