Jacob Ford
Violin maker
(fl. 1770 – 1795)
Jacob Ford worked from various addresses, including 'corner of Davies Street and Berkeley Square' and 'South-Street, Grosvenor Square', between 1770 and 1795. He was a 'Gentlemen's Servant' by profession before becoming a lodging-house keeper. Ford supplied work to Duke, Simpson, and Thompson, and his signature is found within instruments bearing those labels. His craftsmanship is characterized by deep undercuts and narrow chamfers on beautifully finished scrolls, precise purfling with a bright contrasting white core, and a thin but complex varnish of golden-amber color. Often given false Italian labels, his work has been misrepresented as Roman or Florentine by unscrupulous dealers. Only one cello is recorded, but small violas have been encountered, showcasing his distinctive workmanship on a broadly Stainer-derived model. Ford often signed the interior of his instruments in pencil.
Price History
- The auction record for this maker is $13,200 in May 2010, for a violin.
- 13 auction price results.
View all auction prices for Jacob Ford
More related
Carteggio features
Sign up to receive Carteggio features directly
Sign up to our newsletter