Bow Maker
François Lotte
France, Mirecourt
Discover the remarkable journey of François Lotte, a distinguished French bow maker from Mirecourt, celebrated for his elegant craftsmanship and commitment to quality. From his early influences to theevolution of his signature style, delve into the legacy of this prolific artisan whose bows are prized by musicians worldwide.Read more
Short Bio
Full Name: François Lotte
Highlights
New making style: n/a
Locally making
France, Mirecourt
Maker Background
François Lotte had one of the longest and most prolific careers in the modern French bow-making world. His bows are sought after by musicians for their reliable quality, consistency, and playability. He was the son of a violin maker, but his education in the craft came mainly at the Brazins' workshop, where he worked until 1921, and later at Eugene Cuniot-Hury's. Besides these experiences before opening his own business, Lotte was very much influenced by the style of his father-in-law, Emile François Ouchard, and his brother-in-law, Emile Auguste.Before opening his own workshop in 1926, François Lotte partnered with Eugene Brouillier for at least one year. But apparently, the collaboration did not go well. Lotte's early bows exude elegance, characterized by somewhat rounded heads, a hallmark of his craftsmanship. However, as the 1930s unfolded, a subtle shift occurred, with the heads gradually becoming more flattened and square in shape. This evolution in style reflected Lotte's adaptability and willingness to embrace new techniques over the years.
Recognizing the growing demand for his bows, Lotte expanded his operation in 1936 by hiring several assistants, including his son Roger François, who officially joined him in 1940. Together, they continued to uphold the family legacy of fine craftsmanship and attention to detail. Although Lotte retired from active bow-making in 1960, his influence persisted, as he remained a guiding presence in the shop until his passing in 1970. Throughout his career, Lotte crafted a considerable number of bows of excellent quality, each a testament to his skill and dedication to the craft.