The actors of music

The team’s work in this theme aims to place particular emphasis on keyboard makers in France during the 17th and 18th centuries. Similarly, the ‘portraits’ of makers in the visual arts will be addressed, as they reflect a conception of the craft and the status of music among the arts. A preliminary approach will involve creating a list of the most significant or representative works and identifying initial points for reflection.

The role of merchant-luthier-experts in the cultural history of the violin in the 19th century is the focus of work that began in 2022. This will particularly explore the affirmation of expertise, trade, and restoration of antique instruments alongside the production of new instruments within the activities of the ‘luthier,’ positioning them as major influencers on this issue within the social, cultural, and economic fabric of Europe during the 19th century.