This is an exceptional English gold-mounted cello bow in unused condition, dating from around 1910, branded Hart & Son but made in the Hill workshop.
Hart & Son were a highly respected London dealership around the turn of the 19th/20th century. They sold many well-known Italian violins, but also produced their own “line” of instruments in direct competition with those made for the Hill workshop. Some of these violins were made by the Voller Brothers, others seem to have started out life in Mirecourt.
Hart & Son also sold bows under their own brand (either simply “Hart” or “Hart & Son” for the better quality), and the majority of these seem to have been sourced from the Hill shop.
This is such a bow – the metal face, the shaping of the frog and the characteristic fit of the back plate (see photo 5) are unmistakable.
What’s unexpected is that Hills were happy to let their very best quality of work leave the workshop unbranded. This bow is a stunner – a unique head design, highly flamed but intensely dark pernambuco (round in section), and rose gold mounts.
The condition of the bow is mint – I can detect no signs of use. All handle facets are unworn, and the metal parts are unmarked. The silk lapping is slightly tarnished but since both it and the thumb leather appear to be original we felt best to leave well alone.
All in all this is a uniquely beautiful and highly collectable bow.
