Joseph Vautrin

History

Joseph VAUTRIN (1875-1937) was born in Mirecourt in 1875 and died in Chaumont, France, in 1937. He was also a violinist and composer. According to Henri Poidras, Vautrin established himself independently in Mirecourt in 1898, later transferring his business to Chaumont in 1900, where he was still prospering at 9, rue de Verdun. However, John Dilworth states that Vautrin established independently in Mirecourt in 1892, moving to 8 rue Laloy, Chaumont, in 1894.

Craft

• Model: His instruments follow a Stradivari-derived model.
• Varnish: Sources contain conflicting information regarding the varnish color; Henri Poidras describes it as a chestnut brown shade, while John Dilworth notes a dark red varnish.
• Workmanship: John Dilworth describes his work as fine professional work, characterized by a large distinctive scroll.
• Instruments: Prior to 1914, several viols and viola d'amores were also recorded among his productions.
• Label: His labels typically read "Joseph Vautrin fecit / Chaumont anno 19.." and often include his initials "J. V.".

Influence

• Apprenticeship: He was a pupil and apprenticed as a violin maker to Chipot-Vuillaume in Mirecourt.
• Mentorship: He served as the ex-first hand, or head of the workshop, for Emile Germain in Paris.

Further Information

• Workshop Locations: Sources contain conflicting information regarding his workshop addresses and dates of establishment. Henri Poidras states he was located at 9, rue de Verdun in Chaumont, having moved there in 1900. John Dilworth indicates he moved to 8 rue Laloy, Chaumont, in 1894.