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Joseph Alfred Lamy

Joseph Alfred Lamy was born in Mirecourt in 1850 and apprenticed at the age of twelve to Charles Husson. In 1876 he moved to Paris and became the assistant of François Voirin. Lamy was strongly influenced by Voirin, and their work can be difficult to distinguish. After Voirin’s death in 1885 Lamy set up his own workshop, and in 1889 and 1900 he won gold and silver medals at the Paris exhibitions. Around the same time, he was assisted by Eugène Sartory, whose early work closely resembles that of Lamy. From 1900 Lamy’s work became a little heavier, and he started to make bows with silver or gold rings in the frogs and one-piece adjusters. He was also assisted by two of his four sons, Hippolyte Camille and Georges Léon. Sadly Georges died in 1915 in WWI, and his father followed him four years later, leaving Hippolyte to continue the family business.

Joseph Alfred Lamy

(b Mirecourt, 1850; d Paris, 1919)

Joseph Alfred Lamy was born in Mirecourt in 1850 and apprenticed at the age of twelve to Charles Husson. In 1876 he moved to Paris and became the assistant of François Voirin. Lamy was strongly influenced by Voirin, and their work can be difficult to distinguish. After Voirin’s death in 1885 Lamy set up his own workshop, and in 1889 and 1900 he won gold and silver medals at the Paris exhibitions. Around the same time, he was assisted by Eugène Sartory, whose early work closely resembles that of Lamy. From 1900 Lamy’s work became a little heavier, and he... Read more

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A silver-mounted viola bow by Joseph Alfred Lamy

Paris, circa 1905–1910

Joseph Alfred Lamy’s bows are celebrated for their refinement, elegance, and meticulous attention to detail. During his later period, his work increasingly emphasised playability over decorative aesthetics. This exceptional example,... read more

A silver-mounted viola bow by Joseph Alfred Lamy

Paris, circa 1905–1910

Joseph Alfred Lamy’s bows are celebrated for their refinement, elegance, and meticulous attention to detail. During his later period, his work increasingly emphasised playability over decorative aesthetics. This exceptional example, however, achieves a rare balance between the two, combining outstanding playing qualities with the finest craftsmanship.

The bow features an elegant round stick that draws a rich, colourful tone across all four strings. Responsive, articulate, and highly reliable, it offers exceptional control and versatility. A bow of this calibre is a valuable asset for the professional violist seeking the highest standards of performance and workmanship.
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Instruments we have sold by this maker

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