Jacob Stainer

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Jacob Stainer (c. 1617-1683) is the earliest and most important 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.

Many fakes have been created some even claiming to have been made after his death.

[edit] Characteristic features of his instruments

broad lower back
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