The latest price for a violin bow by this maker is $94,107 achieved in autumn of 2018, now very rare to the market here is a rare opportunity to own a bow from the golden period of bow making, it arrives in December.
This bow is without doubt the best example by this fine maker being offered for sale in the U.K. A bold statement but born out of the fact that this bow, being nearly two hundred years old, save for a clavette repair to the head.
It is clear to see that Fonclause worked for Etienne Pajeot as his model at this time is nearly identical, only perhaps a little more utilitarian in style, this is redolent of the very best early makers as they search for an ideal model at the birth of the modern violin bow as we know it. Close scrutiny of the picture of the head shows just how fine his choice of Pernambuco is.
Correct in all parts and with certificates from both Michael Taylor of Los Arcos Finos and Jean-Francois Raffin it is a beautiful and rare bow from the golden period of bow making. It has a remarkable solid big sound but here perhaps the trade off is in agility. That being sound but better violinist is aware you should allow the bow to teach you how best to negotiate passage work without trying to impose your will with tension.
Bernard Millant in his book L'archet says
'These bows are very well made and can be favourably compared to those of the greatest contemporary makers, although his output is modest'. He died on 7th January 1862, at his home aged 62