Honore Derazey

Life

Honore Derazey (1794-1883) was born in 1794 in Darney and died in 1883 in Mirecourt, France. He apprenticed in Mirecourt and subsequently worked in Paris at various ateliers before establishing his own highly successful business in Mirecourt. Derazey received awards in Paris in 1839, 1849, and 1855, and in London in 1851. He was a very prolific maker, especially after approximately 1844, and many of his instruments were sold through J. B. Vuillaume, who sometimes inserted his own label. Honore Derazey also produced several instruments that were passed off as the work of Gaspar Duiffoprugcar, following misguided attempts to suggest that this maker, rather than Andrea Amati, originated the violin in Lyons in the early 16th century.

Characteristics

Models

Derazey primarily followed Stradivari models and, less frequently, Amati models.

Workmanship

, his work is described as very fine and professional, in the Vuillaume style. George Hart notes that many of his instruments are carefully finished and are heavy in wood.

Materials

His instruments were made from good wood and fine materials.

Varnish

The varnish is described as red-gold shaded, though of a rather hard consistency, and inclined to hardness.

Influence and legacy

• Training: Honore Derazey apprenticed in Mirecourt and was employed in Paris at various ateliers.
• Style: His professional work is characterized as being in the Vuillaume style.
• Awards: Honore Derazey gained awards in Paris in 1839, 1849, and 1855, and in London in 1851.
• Reputation: His reputation was briefly undermined by less distinguished examples still bearing his label that were made after his death by his son Justin, Mangenot, and Laberte-Magnie.