Violin - Nestor D. Audinot 1880

Nestor Dominique Audinot (1842–1920), the distinguished French violin maker from Mirecourt, renowned for his contributions to 19th century Parisian violin-making tradition. As the son of Leopold Audinot, he was immersed in the craft from an early age. In 1863, he moved to Paris to work under Sébastien Vuillaume, a prominent figure in the violin-making world. After Vuillaume's death in 1875, Audinot took over the workshop, continuing the legacy of high-quality instrument production.

Craftsmanship and Style

Audinot's violins are celebrated for their meticulous craftsmanship and adherence to classical Cremonese models, particularly those of Stradivari and Guarneri del Gesù. His instruments often feature a strong, bright tone and are varnished in deep, rich colors. He produced approximately 600 instruments during his career, with some distinguished by their intricate details and unique stylistic elements.

Legacy

Audinot retired in 1908, passing his workshop to Eugène Corvisier. He continued to be active in the violin-making community until his death in 1920. His legacy lives on through the instruments he crafted, which remain highly regarded for their tonal quality and craftsmanship.

Our violin

Made upon a late Guarnerius model with thick red-orange varnish, this violin is probably among the best quality instruments Nestor Audinot ever made. Some sources claim that Nestor Audinot even made instruments for great Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume, and when we compare our N. Audinot violin, with a J.B Vuillame violin made eight years earlier and upon the same model, one can not help but wonder if it's not true after all.