Pieter Rombouts

Born in Amsterdam in 1667.

He began studying string instrument making under his master and father-in-law, Hendrik Jacobs (1629-1704), around 1685, and later took over the workshop.

The majority of cellos labeled Jacobus are believed to be made by Rombouts.

He established his own business in Sint Antoniessbreestraat, Holland, and later in Botermarkt, where he produced a wide range of string instruments, from violins to cellos, pochette violins and viols.

Work continued in Rombouts' workshop after his death, and it is believed that his pupils and successors, Hendrick Ravekens (1681-1734) and Casper Beeringer (1679-1751), continued to produce pieces.

His craftsmanship is meticulous, and in his early works he resembled his master Jacobs, but used a deeper, richer red varnish.

He produced Amati and later Steiner models, often with wide-body patterns, high arches, large cut F-holes, short corner edges, and whalebone purfling.

The deeply carved scrolls have uniform swirls, and lion heads and other items were also produced.

He died in 1728 (at the age of 61).

Quoted from The Brompton's Book of Violin and Bow Makers