Jean-Joseph Martin

Jean Joseph Martin was born in Mirecourt in 1837. He first studied bow-making with Nicolas Maire. In 1858, he moved to Paris to work for J.B. Vuillaume. Though he as influenced by the Vuillaume style of bow making, his work tends to more closely resemble the strength and durability of Peccatte. At Vuillaume’s shop, he was also strongly influenced by Francois Voirin.

Martin opened his own workshop in Mirecourt in 1863, where he also produced some bows for the Jérôme Thibouville-Lamy Workshop. Later, he served as the director of Emile Mennesson‘s workshop. During this time he also collaborated with luthier Eugene Langonet.

Due to financial instability and competition from larger workshops (Including JTL), Martin’s workshop went under in 1880. He continued to make fine bows until his death. His work is strong and powerful in sound and appearance, and admired as some of the finest from Mirecourt in the 19th century.