Lucien Schmitt

Life

Lucien SCHMITT (1892-after 1949). Sources contain conflicting information regarding his birthplace; he was born in 1892 either in Geneva, Switzerland's The Brompton's Book of Violin & Bow Makers, or at Saint-Julien-en-Genevois in Critical & Documentary Dictionary Of Violin Makers Old & Modern. He died after 1949 in Maylan, France. Schmitt initially pursued a career as a violinist, studying at the Geneva Conservatoire or the Ecole Artistique de Musique at Geneva, where he earned a first prize with commendations from examiners. He subsequently trained as a luthier for two years in Mirecourt with Mougenot, or Mougenot-Jacquet-Gand, and received instruction in bow making from Bazin. His professional experience included working for Vidoudez in Geneva, Lorange in Lyons, Madame Bovis in Nice, and for Caressa and Français in Paris. During World War I, he served as a soldier, was wounded, and received several decorations. Schmitt established his independent workshop in Grenoble from 1922, later relocating to Meylan in 1941. In his later years, he was assisted by his son, Jean Frédéric Schmitt, who was born in 1937.

Characteristics

Models

Lucien Schmitt developed three distinct models: two were derived from the patterns of Amati and Guarneri respectively, while the third was entirely his personal creation. These models were titled 'Modèle Normal', 'Modèle de Soloiste', and 'Mieulx ne Sçay'.

Design Preference

After initially copying Amati, he later favored the Guarnerius model, noting its more powerful tone.

Construction

He crafted instrument backs entirely in one-piece.

Varnish

Schmitt utilized a gold-red oil varnish, which he applied either equably or in graded thicknesses.

Workmanship

His instruments are noted for their fine workmanship.

Branding

Instruments were branded internally and in the pegbox with 'L.S.' and inscribed with 'Lucien Schmitt / Luthier à Grenoble 19.. 1949 Instrument dessiné et entièrement exécuté par / Lucien Schmitt / no.120 / Violonier d'Art à Grenoble'.

Influence and legacy

• Luthier Training: He trained for two years in Mirecourt with Mougenot, also referred to as Mougenot-Jacquet-Gand.
• Bow Making: His bow making skills were developed under the tutelage of Bazin.
• Restoration: He was admitted into the workshops of Vidoudez in Geneva to learn the art of instrument restoration.
• Family Involvement: In his later career, Lucien Schmitt was assisted by his son, Jean Frédéric Schmitt, who was born in 1937.

Further Information

• Workshop Locations: Lucien Schmitt established his independent workshop in Grenoble from 1922, subsequently moving to Meylan in 1941.
• Professional Engagements: Prior to establishing his own workshop, he worked for Vidoudez in Geneva, Lorange in Lyons, Madame Bovis in Nice, and for Caressa and Français in Paris.