Tomasz Panufnik

John Dilworth

PANUFNIK, Tomasz Born 1875 Biatobrzegi, died 1952 Warsaw Poland. Trained as a hydro-engineer. Active as a violin maker in Warsaw 1903-1925 and regarded as the best Polish maker of the 20th century. Planned a large commercial establishment, the Panufnik Musical Instruments Factory, which lasted only one year. Father of Andrzej Panufnik, the composer. His work was endorsed by many leading European virtuosi. Made instruments in two distinct models: ‘Antica’ and ‘Polonia’. ‘Antica’ was based on classical Italian designs, while the ‘Polonia’ was an original model, featuring a finely carved female head in place of the scroll. All Stradivari-derived patterns; very sophisticated work although with slightly exaggerated features. Dark red-brown crackled varnish. Large open ‘f’s, short wings, unfluted, and large finials. Low arch, full to edge, and short corners. Pine blocks; not morticed. Author of Technologia Lutnicza (Warsaw 1934). Thomas Panufnik / Fecit anno 1914 / F.B / VIL Tom. Panufnik. Thomas Panufnik/ 25/IX/ fecit anno 1928 [Jaskulski]