Charles Nicolas Bazin Violin Bow, Mirecourt circa 1900

This is an exceptional bow by Charles Nicolas Bazin. It’s in great conditon, and it’s a strong player with a broad yet crisp sound.

Interest in the Bazin family of bowmakers has recently been rekindled by the publication of “Bowmakers of the Bazin Family” and their value is rising steadily. Charles Nicolas Bazin was the most successful and without doubt the most talented maker of the family, a great innovator and a keen businessman too. This bow dates from around 1900, the most prolific period of his life – at this time we estimate that there were around 15 employees in the workshop.

The stick is of round section deep red pernambuco, mounts are silver and ebony – the quality of work is very high.

The condition is excellent – there are a couple of small dents and the underslide is slightly bruised on the player’s side, otherwise there are very few signs of use…

This is an unusually fine bow, with a big sound and a very easy action on and off the string – everything is in balance, tonally as well as mechanically.

The sound is broad and quite rich but also full of high frequency content. Lots of attack to the note, but also a smooth and imperturbable legato.

Just a great all-rounder, and outstanding value for money…