Johann Michael Scheinlein

History

Johann Michael SCHEINLEIN (1751-1794) was born in 1751 in Langenfeld, near Nuremberg, Germany, and died in 1794 in Langenfeld. He was the third son and pupil of Matthäus Friedrich Scheinlein. His father began training him rigorously from the age of twelve, taking him on travels to Tyrol and other places to expose him to the best violin-making workshops, ensuring he could learn new techniques. Johann Michael Scheinlein surpassed his father in both the precision of his work and his understanding of the craft. He was highly esteemed during his lifetime.

Craft

• Model: He worked after the largest Stainer model, beginning around 1780. He modified this model by making the arching somewhat flatter, which resulted in a full and pleasant tone.
• Workmanship: His instruments were neatly and carefully made, characterized by well-finished and accurate woodwork.
• Varnish: He used a reasonably clear brown varnish.
• Label: His instruments bore the label 'J. M. Scheinlein fecit Langenfeld / prope Nürnberg'.
• Durability: Sources contain conflicting information about the durability of his instruments; while they had a good reputation for tone, some suggest the wood was not thick enough, leading to them not lasting well.

Influence

• Mentorship: He was the pupil of his father, Matthäus Friedrich Scheinlein.
• Training: His father took him on extensive travels, including to Tyrol, to visit leading violin-making workshops and broaden his knowledge.

Legacy

• Reputation: During his lifetime, he was highly esteemed, and a violin made by him would fetch four Louisd'or.

Summary

Johann Michael SCHEINLEIN (1751-1794) was a German violin maker, born and deceased in Langenfeld, near Nuremberg. As the third son and pupil of Matthäus Friedrich Scheinlein, he received rigorous training from a young age, including travels to prominent workshops. He surpassed his father in craftsmanship, working after the Stainer model but with flatter arching to achieve a full and pleasant tone. His instruments were noted for their accurate and well-finished woodwork and a reasonably clear brown varnish, and he was highly regarded during his lifetime.