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Francois Pillement was known as Pillement pere.
According to the Universal Dictionary of Violin and Bow makers by
William Henley Pillement worked at Mirecourt from 1775-1820. Certainly
this smallish, flat backed viol shaped instrument is from the period
and it displays many of characteristics of that makers work. The
maple back shows an attractive tight flame. The table shows spruce
of an extremely fine nature and the ribs are fitted flush to the
two plates.
Although not necessarily detrimental to the instruments
value, the top shoulders of this instrument show signs of having
been reduced slightly (an action that has most certainly made the
proportions of this critical playing area much more accessible)
while the upper and lower ribs on the treble side of the instrument
and the lower rib on the bass side of the instrument appear to be
from a slightly later date. Replaced rather than repaired, most
probably due to extensive damage, the work has been well executed
and is not by any means immediately apparent to the eye.
A majestic set of early Mirecourt machines are attached
to the peg-box of this instrument and most certainly suggest quality.
The 'G' worm bracket is branded 'E Irroy a Mirecourt'.
The original varnish is of an appealing golden to
dark brown and it is in an excellent state of preservation. Overall
the condition of this instrument can be described as good. The instrument
responds to the bow quickly and it has a nice strong, clear sound.
Width at the upper bout 19.65in (49.3cm)
Width at the middle bout 14.0in (35.5cm)
Width at the lower bout 24.85in (63.2cm)
LOB 43.75in (111.0cm)
St length 42.0in (106.8cm)
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