Bow & Bridge Violin and bow makers, as the old books printed them

Books › the history of the violin, 1864 › scan 280

Scan 280

the history of the violin, 1864

6 lines. Read by computer on 28 September 2026. Printed page 258. See the scan on archive.org.

1the vehicle used. The tone was very pure and clear in quality, but not great in quantity.
3Thomas Jay, supposed to be a descendant of the celebrated viol maker named in "Musicks Monument," who also made similar instruments, is stated to be living about 1690 to 17—, and the style of work in the few violins which have been seen, may be considered as an advancement towards superior workmanship. The instruments of Baker of Oxford and the maker under present notice are about equal in excellence. "Lot 22, another (viol) said to be the neatest that Jay ever made." This may be the maker just mentioned, or the elder one of the same name. It will be seen, about fifty years after that the work of another of this family name commanded a good price even for an inferior description of instrument. Edward Lewis was a maker of London, and stands preeminent for his good workmanship; his style was excellent, and the few violins which have been seen were varnished of a light yellow colour, however others assert that he also used a red colour with a golden ground. Be this as it may, there can be but one opinion that his violins, which are scarce, have much beauty, and are remarkable for their fine varnish. "Lot 19, another ditto (tenor) by Mr. Lewis; also Lot 24, another (bass violin) rare good one by Mr. Lewis." Some persons say that Jay and Lewis were partners, but there is no evidence known to decide this point.
5Barak Norman has been mentioned as a maker of viols, and it is believed he was in business from 1690 to 1740. There is evidence of violoncellos being made in 1718, but no violin has been seen of his work. The violas and violoncellos of this maker are generally of full size, although one of the latter is known unusually small, of which mention will be made directly.

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