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Violin bow by F.X.Tourte, Paris c.1800-1810
Full description
The bow displays the great sober and functional qualities of the maker’s innovative approach. The unique combination of weight and frog-to-tip balance is legendary among players. This bow was made during the period of his established maturity, both in craftsmanship and in design. The round stick is carved from deep reddish-brown colored Pernambuco wood with a randomly figured pattern and superior quality. The head is well outlined, resolutely carved, and typical of this period. The later frog follows the exceptional silver and pearl mounting of the button.
François Tourte (1747-1835) is revered as the foremost figure in the history of bow-making. His innovations revolutionized the design of the modern bow. While many of the elements he improved existed before him, Tourte's genius lay in integrating them into a cohesive and distinctly different instrument.
Beginning his career alongside his brother Nicolas Leonard, Tourte soon emerged as an independent force in bow-making. From the late 1780s to the 1830s, he developed unique models that set his work apart. His craftsmanship became the benchmark for modern design, influencing bow makers for generations.
dimensions
Weight
58,1 g
Length
739 mm
Made by
François Xavier Tourte
François Xavier Tourte (1747–1835) is hailed as the father of the modern bow. A former clockmaker, he revolutionized bow making in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, setting the standards still followed today. His innovative designs—including the concave stick, precise balance, and screw mechanism—reshaped how musicians interact with their instruments. Tourte’s bows remain the gold standard for players and collectors, admired for their exceptional craftsmanship and historical significance.
Learn moreViolin by Lorenzo Storioni, Cremona, 1774
By Lorenzo Storioni | , Cremona, 1774
This fine cremonese violin was crafted by the hands of one of the most celebrated violin makers of the late 18th century. And his instruments remain highly prized by musicians and collectors to this day, his violins are particularly prized for their exceptional tonal qualities, with a rich, powerful sound. This Storioni violin is a masterpiece of his craft, showcasing his unparalleled skill and artistry as a violin maker.
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