The extraordinary John Antes – America’s first luthier

John Antes, born in 1740 near Philadelphia, holds the distinction of being America’s first luthier and a pioneer of chamber music in Colonial America. Deeply influenced by the Moravian community, known for its rich musical traditions, Antes crafted his first violin at 18 and continued to create other string instruments, showcasing his exceptional craftsmanship.

In 1764, Antes was ordained as a deacon and soon embarked on a missionary journey to Egypt in 1769, aiming to establish a Moravian mission. His time in Egypt, however, was fraught with significant challenges. In 1779, he was imprisoned and tortured by local authorities suspicious of his activities. Despite this brutal experience, Antes’ resolve remained steadfast, and he continued his missionary work after his release.

During his time in Egypt, Antes composed several pieces, including string trios, which are among the earliest examples of American chamber music. These compositions blend European classical traditions with the unique cultural influences he encountered during his travels. Notably, he sent some of his works to prominent figures of the time, such as Benjamin Franklin, highlighting the recognition his music received.

Returning to America, Antes continued to compose and craft instruments. His works were noted for their intricate design and superior sound quality. Despite the physical and emotional scars from his imprisonment, Antes remained dedicated to his art. Suffering from his torture in Egypt, Antes retired to Bristol, England and died in 1811. His life and career exemplify the enduring spirit and innovation of early American music, deeply rooted in the Moravian tradition.

Antes’ heritage extends beyond his compositions and instruments. His life story offers a glimpse into the cultural and religious dynamics of Colonial America and the broader Atlantic world. It underscores the interconnectedness of music, faith, and community during a transformative period in history. Today, John Antes is remembered not only as a pioneering luthier and composer but also as a cultural bridge through his extraordinary musical contributions. His works continue to be celebrated and studied, providing valuable insights into the early American musical landscape and the lasting influence of the Moravian tradition.

This is Ante’s passport, issued 1782 in Alexandria, Egypt by consul Giovanni Francesco Agostini.

With further research, I found out that Agostini, a Venetian merchant from the company Brandi & Agostini, was made consular agent by Austria in Alexandria in 1763, and then, six years later, in 1769, he became imperial royal vice consul. The city had then barely a population of 5000 citizens.

His appointment was intended to promote trade between Trieste, then a free port in the Hapsburg Empire, and Alexandria. A few years later, in 1781, the Austrian Consulate of Alexandria was officially recognized by the Ottoman Empire. At that time, Austrian consuls in the Levant did not receive a salary, but were entitled to a cottimo: a consular tax determined by the Austrian minister in
Constantinople. In time, the cottimo was set at 2% of the value of any cargo transported by an Austrian ship which called in the port.

Initially, this was insufficient to cover the consul’s expenses, so the Austrian authorities usually appointed either consuls of other powers or else wealthy merchants to act as their consul. During the nineteenth century many changes took place and the number of consular employees grew after 1825 when Emperor Franz Joseph I. approved the appointment of civil servants in the ports with which Austria traded intensely, including Alexandria. By 1845, the consular staff in Alexandria included two dragomans, one registry clerk, two chancery clerks, one bawab and three kawasses.

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