Here is a wonderful example of one of the very best early makers Joseph Rene Lafleur. Made around 1830 there is something magical about the best bows from this period in that the makers are aware of the dominance of the great Francois Xavier Tourte, He is at this point still making and a major influence in Paris, he died in 1835.

At the same time each great maker is searching to find  their own model, often a variant on Tourte. At first sight some of these concepts may seem not to be aesthetically perfect, thinking of say Persoit. This is of course an error. We must just train our eyes to understand more. Once the initial ignorance has lifted thus great beauty is encountered. Ignorance is a dangerous presence when studying bows and makers output.

This bow is travelling next week to its lucky new owner, a recitalist and quartet leader in northern Spain, He will enjoy the companionship of a superb and extremely rare bow in his musical endeavours and I wish him, and the bow well.