Restoration of a Joseph Alfred Lamy bow

First of all previous work by other hands is removed so a clear clean start can be made on the head to see if it can be saved. 

This type of Lamy pere is extremely easy to date as he made this Vuillaume style bow from 1894-1900, The head becoming more elegant as the years progressed. This model is relatively rare and in fine condition they sell routinely for £20,000-£25,000.

Wonderful to use in stressful chamber orchestra situations, I remember only too well in recording studios with small sections, this type of bow was the 'go to' bow for these times.

These bows generally sell as soon as they are ready as due to the head repair I am able to take some fifteen thousand pounds sterling off the price. French polishing is done in several stages over a period of about four days.

Ferrule alignment and join tidied and reset on frog.

After extensive tests on the repaired head it was decided to replace the head, although the original wood goes right through through to the head, take a look at the picture above to find the join.

Over the years I have sold a number of bows with this repair, an exact copy of the original, it can only be spotted under very close scrutiny. Indeed it is somewhat comical when you ask someone to find the repair as they really struggle.

Having played this bow in recital I really look forward to it finding a new home with a violinist as it gives a great deal back to the player.