Violin maker
(maker: 1842 – 1920)
Born at Rheims 1842. Died there 1920. Worked in several ateliers at Paris. Established extensive premises at Mirecourt, 1876-1881. Associated with Martin and Joseph Guarini some years previously, ultimately purchased the trade-marks of that firm, and henceforth built his instruments under the pseudonym of Joseph Guarini. Produced nearly 3,000 of these superior “commercial” instruments, and, for many years, their popularity out-distanced all competitors. Recipient of gold medals and “diplomas d’honneur” at European and American exhibitions. Modelling especially adhering to the Messie Strad. Early specimens with red varnish, later productions with yellow-red on amber ground. £20. Reputed to have been indefatigable in varnish experimenting. £65, 1960.
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E. M. Joseph Guarini fecit (A)
Anno 1881. No. 1565.
Emile Mennesson, à Reins (Marne)
Seul concessionare pour le France et l’Etranger
déposé.
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Emile Mennesson, dit Guarini.
E.M. Luthier. A Sainte Cecile à Reims
2 Médailles d’or décoration de l’Ordre Royal
du Christ de Portugal.
Année 1886. No. 1903
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Later labels have 3 instead of 2 médailles, and is added after Portugal: ‘Reims, Diplôme d’honneur, 1889”. Business carried on by his son Jean, since 1919, and by grandson Raymond, 1926. A report in praise of the violins of Emile was issued at Rheims, 1876, by L. S. Fanart (member of local Academy of Arts, secretary of the Scientific Congress of France, and member of Art Societies in Italy, etc.)