Time to recognize the historic contributions of the Amati Family of Cremona! Andreas, dates 1520-1580 approx., was the founding father and an early viol maker. His violins frequently has pearwood backs and many were slab cut. His most famous 24 violins were made for the French king Charles IX, instruments featuring a fine inlay construction. Most of these fine instruments were lost in 1789 during the French revolution! These violins inspired the ViolinsofPlymouth reproduction (slab backed) shown in the included photographs!
Sons Antonio and Hieronymus (dates approx. 1570-1635) made smaller and larger violins, respectively. Both used slab backs at times and darker varnishes.
Nicolo, son of Hieronymus, dates 1596-1684, is considered the most talented maker of the family. His works included the "Grand Amati"; all exhibited fine detail and magnificent varnishes.
President Thomas Jefferson owned and played and Amati instrument.Many are prized in orchestras and chamber music groups today! My first teacher, recently arrived from Latvia, played an "Amati" violin. The Amati workshop was the most prominant "school" of violin making in this early period.
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