Jacob (II) Rayman

History

Jacob (II) RAYMAN (circa 1620-circa 1650) was a Tyrolese maker who established himself in England, likely around 1620, and is considered by many to be the first to make a violin in that country. He worked until about 1650. According to John Dilworth, he was the son and pupil of Jacob Rayman (I). Sources contain conflicting information regarding the extent of his known work; John Dilworth states his work is unknown, while Henri Poidras, Willibald Leo Lütgendorff, George Hart, and Cecie Stainer provide detailed descriptions of his instruments. His work reveals characteristics of the German school, distinguishing it from the English viol makers of his time. He resided first at Blackman Street, and later at Bell Yard, both in Southwark, London.

Craft

• Workmanship: His work is described as somewhat primitive or rough in exterior, and not always careful, yet it exhibits ability and talent. The purfling is sometimes noted as defective.
• Model: His instruments feature a flat model, standing between the Stainer and Brescian schools, though sometimes considered less elegant in form and not arched.
• Varnish: Rayman's varnish is consistently praised as very fine, beautiful, and yellow-brown, often with a slight red tint.
• Sound-holes: The F-holes are described as very small and striking, though not particularly graceful.
• Scroll: The scroll is diminutive or small, and well carved or cut, but Henri Poidras notes it is not always in proportion with the body of the instrument.
• Tone: His instruments are valued for their good, clear, and penetrating tone.
• Instruments: He made violins, often of a small size, and also produced fine tenors.

Influence

• Training: According to John Dilworth, he was the son and pupil of Jacob Rayman (I).
• School: His violins reveal characteristics of the German school.

Legacy

• Valuation: His instruments are greatly valued and have maintained their appreciation.
• Collections: An "extraordinary Rayman" and "three others ditto" were mentioned in the catalogue of Tom Britton's collection of instruments.
• Exhibitions: Works by Jacob Rayman were exhibited at the Vienna Music Exhibition.

Further Information

• Addresses: He worked at Blackman Street, Long-Southwark, and later at Bell Yard in Southwark, London.
• Labels: Known labels include "Jacob Rayman dwelling in Blackman Street, Long-Southwark, 1641" and "Jacob Rayman, at ye Bell Yard in Southwarke, London, 1648."

Summary

Jacob (II) Rayman, a Tyrolese maker who settled in England around 1620, is widely considered the founder of violin making in that country. His instruments, though sometimes described as primitive in workmanship, are highly regarded for their fine yellow-brown varnish with a red tint, and their clear, penetrating tone. He made violins and tenors, characterized by a flat model, small F-holes, and a well-carved but disproportionate scroll. His work shows German influences and was valued in collections such as Tom Britton's.