Bernard Millant 13th may 1927 - 5th April 2017

This month we pause to think about the late great Bernard Millant, a remarkably kind man who was always a delight to spend time with. It frankly amazes me that this man found time to discuss the finer points of the great makers with me.

Bernard Millant 1927-2017

Bernard Millant 1927-2017

I always knew my time with him was important, I used to savour the tranquility and his unhurried ways as he explained details he could see in a bow I had taken to him. Like many dealers around the world I owe him a great deal, and miss his company dreadfully.

Thank you for your time and help Bernard, it was appreciated.

This month we remember the irreplaceable Bernard Millant

Bernard Millant - 13th May 1929 - 5th April 2017

Here is the delightful Bernard Millant chastising me for getting the date slightly wrong on the patent Vuillaume brought out on his self re-hairing bow (26th Feb 1836). How I miss those long conversations about makers, especially the ones he knew as a child, Sartory and Emile Auguste Ouchard. Thank you Bernard!

Bernard Millant 1929-2017

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This month we remember our true friend....the wonderful Bernard Millant

Every moment with him was a pure joy, an adventure together, of discovery and pleasure.  For people outside the close knit dealer community it is tempting to think of dealers as people who are fond of money.  For the true dealer this is not the case, necessary yes, funding for the next purchase. The true dealer is trying all the time to learn and help others discover the wonderful world of french bow making at its best.

There is one more, very important attribute to being a fine dealer and that is friendship with your colleagues from all over the world.  I have known many for over twenty-five years now, I value their help and friendship keenly.

This month we have a delightful Viola bow made recently by Michael J Taylor, in mint unused condition.  A superb Francois Xavier Tourte model made by the United Kingdom's greatest living maker.  As Bernard said....'Michael is one of the best'...I could not agree more.

Of course after the sale of the last two early Sartory bows a few weeks ago I have a new Sartory with a clavette repair to the head from 1905-1908 period, just sensational in all respects. The Taylor is £4,800 the Sartory £10,000. Both rather rare they won’t be here too long!