Dictionary of Makers

Jacob Eury, for some time mistakenly identified as Nicolas Eury, initially studied violin making with his father François but soon took up bow making. After eight years of military service Eury returned to Mirecourt and may have apprenticed in the workshop of Jean 'Grand' Adam. He left for Paris around 1805, and worked there in various locations, until moving in 1826 to Versailles, where he remained. 

 

Soon after his arrival in Paris he came into contact with François Xavier Tourte and adopted elements of his style and working methods: frogs and heads are similar in size and shape, and metal fittings are solid and thick. The tonal characteristics of his bows also bear similarity to those of Tourte. However, the influence of Eury's other contemporaries Lupot and Voirin are visible in other examples. A unique quality of his work is the use of a chamfer in lieu of a ridge to the tip of the head. His output remained of excellent quality as he aged, though after about 1826 the style becomes heavier. Though he struggled financially throughout his career, his bows are today highly regarded by players and collectors alike.