Guy and I share a joke at the spring London auctions

The spring auction provided some interesting moments. There was a sleeper violin (probably a Landolfi) at one auction with an estimate of £100-£200 that sold for £20,000.

It was exciting to suddenly see the big dealers enter the room to see if their phone bid would win the day. The fine French bows continue to pull away from the rest of the field. The most stunning bow offered was a damaged Jacob Eury that sold for £24,500.

Here I am catching up with a good Parisienne friend Guy, a very kind man. A modern-day Tarisio, he travels the world selling the finest Italian and French violins to appreciative customers. His bow collection is among the best in the world, and a constant source of inspiration. I often ask Guy to help when top players ask for first class undamaged bows. I particularly remember a Voirin bow in such beautiful condition it looked brand new!