Dominique Peccatte Violin Bow, Paris circa 1845

Dominique Peccatte bows are highly prized for their playing qualities, and this one is a dream, strong yet supple in a uniquely 19th century way.

Of all the outstanding makers who passed through the Vuillaume shop, Peccatte has risen to pole position, eclipsing even Persoit in the marketplace. Perhaps the reason for this is that his bows, while retaining the unique sonic qualities of the early makers, are entirely suited to modern playing styles.

Here we have a beautiful later example – the stick of excellent red-brown pernambuco with a dramatic swirl, the frog silver and ebony.

There are a few condition issues to report. Although the stick is generally excellent, there’s a small restored crack on the top of the handle just next to the thumb leather – bushed internally and secure. The frog has been chevalled, and the top 2-3 millimetres of ebony are new. The ferrule and underslide are also new, though the original worn parts are kept with the bow – Peccatte silver is notoriously thin and often relaced entirely…

I don’t think I’ve ever come across a Dominique Peccatte which wasn’t a great player, but even in the thin air at the top of the highest peaks you find great ones and really great ones! This one is about as good as they get – stiff enough for a modern technique, supple enough to magic up that golden tone, supremely adaptable and malleable. A real life partner for a top level player…

The price of a good Dominique Peccatte has risen alarmingly in the last couple of years – this example remains almost affordable thanks to a couple of relatively inconsequential condition issues.