Pierre Joseph Hel

Pierre-Joseph Hel (1842–1902), generally known as Joseph Hel, was one of the leading French violin makers working outside Paris in the second half of the 19th century. Born at Mazirot in the Vosges, he entered the violin-making trade in Mirecourt at the age of fourteen, beginning his apprenticeship with François Salzard . ...Read More He subsequently broadened his experience in several workshops before establishing himself in Lille in 1865. In Lille, Hel developed a substantial and highly respected workshop and became luthier to the Conservatoire. His instruments were principally based on classical Italian models, particularly those of Stradivari, Guarneri, Amati and Maggini. His best work is distinguished by precise craftsmanship, carefully selected materials and rich varnish ranging from orange-red to darker red-brown. He numbered his own master instruments separately from the more commercial production of his workshop, an important distinction given the scale of the business. Hel was also interested in practical improvements to stringed instruments and developed, among other devices, a cello endpin system and a form of geared or mechanically assisted peg intended to improve tuning stability. His reputation extended well beyond Lille, and his instruments found clients throughout France and abroad. Following his death in Lille in 1902, the workshop passed to his son Pierre Hel, who continued and further developed the family tradition. Read Less