Eric Blot, the Cremona-based restorer, violin maker and expert on Italian stringed instruments
Eric Blot, the Italian violin maker, restorer, expert and researcher, is a cosmopolitan figure in the world of historic Italian master violins and ranks among the world's leading experts in the field of violin making in Italy. Born 10 January 1955 in Paris, Eric Blot completed his training at the highly esteemed violin-making school of Cremona in 1974. From very early on, he was particularly interested in restoring fine stringed instruments, which led him back to his home city in 1978 so he could perfect his skills under the tutelage of various specialist masters.
Eric Blots French intermezzo lasted only three years, and then the young master settled in Italy and opened his own workshop in Perugia. As a restorer in demand across the country, Eric Blot acquired comprehensive knowledge of the different regional traditions of Italian violin making. He also developed solid practical expertise which soon bore other fruit: his publications eventually gave rise to his major work, "Liuteria Italiana”, the 5th edition of which is currently being prepared.
Eric Blot was once quoted as saying “time and love” were needed to become a good violin maker. And in the meantime he himself does not often have time to work on his own instruments, since it is his love of the field that frequently takes him to multiple congresses and exhibitions around the world. The atelier in Cremona where Eric Blot set up shop over 30 years ago has become a dynamic venue of the art of violin making. It is a place where young, talented violin makers and restorers work and learn – including Eric Blots's son Maël Blot, who has created his own approach to the Cremonese tradition. Maël's craftsmanship has brought about the workshop's new and faithful interpretations of Antonio Stradivari orientated instruments. These pieces are the manifestations and the product of the father and son's common focus on their great role model.
Online catalogue:
ERIC BLOT S.r.l · Via Ceresole 16 · 26100 CREMONA - ITALY
Phone: +39 0372 801706 · Fax: +39 0372 801708
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