Jacob Stainer (c. 1617-1683) was the earliest and best known Austrian luthier.
Stainer was born in Absam, Austria, into a family of stringed
instrument makers. His designs influenced instrument construction in Germany, parts of Italy and
several other countries.
He may have been associated with the luthiers of Cremona, Italy, in particular the Amati family. His instruments were among the most highly
sought-after throughout Europe until Antonio Stradivari rose to fame. Stradivari's
instruments are flatter and broader and produce a more powerful sound, and this became the preferred sound of musicians.
Stainer’s violins are comparatively rare today and very few of his violas, cellos, and basses are known to exist.
Characteristic features of his instruments
- Broad lower back
- Pronounced higher arching of the belly than the back
- Highly skilled craftsmanship particularly displayed in cut scrolls and occasionally carved heads of lions, angels, or
women
- Varnish ranging in color from amber to orange-red, comparable in brilliance to Cremonese varnish
Stainer's label
- Jacobus Stainer in Absam
- prope Oenipontum fecit 1663
Translation: "Jacob Stainer in Absam; made near Oenipontus" (Latin name for Innsbruck).
External links
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