Pierre Simon

Who was Pierre Simon?

Pierre Simon, later known as Paul Simon, was a French archetier/bowmaker.

Became one of the most important makers of his time. He worked in Paris for Peccatte, Vuillaume and Gand Frères. In 1847 he purchased Dominique Peccatte's business. His bows have 2 distinct head models, one his own and the other based on a Peccatte model. Not much is known about his early work. He probably apprenticed from the age of 12 in Mirecourt, working for someone like Pajeot.

Arrived in Paris in 1838. According to experts, started making bows at least as early as 1827. However, the earliest bow attributed to Pierre, according to Raffin & Millant, was made for Jean Baptiste Vuillaume and dates back to 1845 when Pierre was 37 years old. Simon entered partnership with Joseph Henry from 1848-1851. Simon was one of the most skilled makers ever. He made bows on several patterns and of varying weights. Sometimes he used a model similar to the Peccatte interpretation of François Tourte, and these heavier Simon bows play similarly to Peccatte bows. But the classic, bell-shaped Simon head is derived from an earlier Tourte model. These tend to be lighter and more flexible than the classic Peccatte model. The finest Simon bows can have a highly attractive, lithe flexibility and a genuine beauty of tone.