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Bow Maker
Justin Poirson
France, Paris
A fine representative of the late French bow-making tradition, Justin Poirson’s bows are admired for their elegance, balance, and refined playing qualities. Trained within the influential circle of Vuillaume and Gand & Bernardel in Paris, Poirson produced bows that continue to be appreciated by musicians today for their craftsmanship, responsiveness, and unmistakable French character.Read more
Short Bio
Full Name: Justin Poirson
Highlights
New making style: n/a
Credentials
Modern French bow making
J.B Vuillaume's apprentice
Refined Voirin influenced work
Sought after by musicians
Locally making
France, Paris
Maker Background
Dominique “Justin” Poirson belongs to the final generation of great French bow makers connected to the legendary workshop of Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume in Paris, where he likely absorbed the influence of François Nicolas Voirin and the refined principles of the modern French bow. After Vuillaume’s death in 1875, Poirson continued his career at the prestigious firm of Gand & Bernardel Frères before establishing his own workshop in Paris in 1879.Although his independent business appears to have faced significant difficulties later in life, Poirson’s finest bows—particularly those from his earlier period—demonstrate remarkable elegance, balance, and craftsmanship, qualities that continue to be appreciated by musicians today. His struggles seem to have reflected more the hardships of his personal circumstances and limited commercial success than any lack of artistic ability. Despite a difficult life and tragic end, his work endured, and his bows remain respected examples of the French tradition, admired for their refined playing qualities and connection to one of the most important schools of bow making in history