Here is a very rare and important Violin bow unearthed in rural mid France. James Tubbs violin bows are especially treasured by players so here is a rare opportunity for a player to own a bow by him but without the funds normally needed!   Over the years in France it has been played a great deal, the stamp has completely worn away, the sign of a great bow, such use!

The photo shows the lowest quarter of the head sustained some damage at some point, this has been beautifully restored to its former glory.   A first class James Tubbs stick with beautiful replica fittings by the renowned restorer and maker Michael Taylor

It is interesting to note that this great maker had a following even in the home of bow making, France!    I remember when looking through the late great Bernard Millant’s collection he had a beautiful James Tubbs bow.

By this time in the 1908 his shop was at 47 Wardour street (the street numbers were later changed to 94). At this time several high profile players were regular customers, Wilhelmj and Piatti were keen followers of his bows. 

As soon as I saw this bow, especially the unique way Tubbs carves the throat area below I recognised his hand, more so because recently I sold a very fine Tubbs violin bow and took special care to read his mannerisms on the stick.   Made from fabulous pernambuco it is a really good find for a Violinist  on a budget!

It was a particular pleasure to sell the fittings from the Tubbs bow owned by Marie Schumann (the daughter of Robert Schumann) several years ago, superb fitting as you can see below.    

Please be aware these are NOT the fittings for this bow, this bow lost its fittings many years ago and now the fabulous Michael Taylor is going to make first class replica fittings exactly to James Tubb’s specifications given his deep knowledge of this great maker.  I am in no doubt it shall be a delight when finished.