Estimation Bow

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Bow

Do you own any bow? Are you curious to know what they are worth? Our Experts can provide an appraisal to give you an estimate of the market price, then help you to ensure the best possible price should you decide to sell.

What is a bow for?

The bow is used to rub against the strings of certain musical instruments, such as the violin. Bows have been in circulation for a very long time and are made by bow makers. It consists of a wooden stick strung with a wick of horsehair (colours vary). This is coated with rosin (pine resin). Rubbing on the string produces a special sound.

The main elements of a bow

This object consists of a head and a heel. The horsehair is protected by the head plate which can be made of ivory, mother-of-pearl, silver, gold or high-density wood. A polymer is found on more recent pieces.

Different bow sizes

Sizes vary quite a bit from one piece to another (the average size is 75cm for a weight of 55-56 grams). The most frequently used woods are Brazilian pernambuco, snakewood or ironwood, but carbon fibre is also used. Caring for the bow is just as important as caring for the instrument.

High selling prices for bows

Bows are commonly found in collections of early musical instruments. Some sought-after pieces can reach high prices. A rare bow signed François-Xavier de Tourte mounted on silver with a light trim sold for 324,880 euros in 2018. This maker is moreover nicknamed the “Stradivarius of bows”.

Criteria for appraising a bow

A range of criteria should be taken into account when evaluating a bow, including its age, origin, condition and any possible restorations. A pernambuco violin bow in brown wood with a mother-of-pearl grain ebony raise made by Pierre Simon was sold for 36,400 euros.

How do we appraise your bow?

Requesting an online apppraisal of your musical instrument is simple. You just need to complete our appraisal form with a brief description and some photos. This information will be sent directly to one of our bow experts who will provide you with a price range and sales advice.

A team of experts and auctioneers

If you own a bow, use our online form for an appraisal.

You will then be contacted by a member of our team of experts and auctioneers to give you an independent opinion of the market price. Should you wish to sell your painting, our specialists will also advise you on the various options available for selling at the best price.

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