W.E Hill & Sons Cello Bow London c.1900

W. E. Hill & Sons (1887–1992) was a London-based firm that specialised in violins and other string instruments, and bows. It was also known as William Hill & Sons or William E. Hill & Sons. Founded by William Ebsworth Hill at 38 New Bond Street, London in 1887, the name W. E. Hill & Sons built on a long family history of violin making going back to William Ebsworth's great grandfather, Joseph Hill. The firm soon gained a widespread reputation for excellence in repairs, making of instruments, bows, cases and fittings as well as instrument identification and authentication. Many fine craftsmen worked for the firm, and they were particularly famous for their bow makers, their work renowned for its character and consistency.

This cello bow is stamped "W. E. Hill & Sons" and weighs 71.4 grams. It has a match mark and year stamp of "V" and "32" respectively, and a maker's mark of two vertical nicks either side of the bottom of the mortice on the tip lining, which most likely indicates William Johnston, who worked at Hill's between 1894 and 1940. It has a round stick of pernambuco and measures 71.4cm in length, with a whalebone lapping, leather grip, and silver tip lining. The current frog is of ebony with no eye, mounted in silver, and it has a solid silver button. The bow is also sold with the original ivory frog, which has been replaced for the convenience of the player.

It has a relatively strong and stiff stick, which makes power in legato quite comfortable, and gives off-the-string strokes an easy rebound. This bow shines especially in the lower half, having a very controlled sense of onset and articulation, and overall gives the cello a rounder character to its sound. It would be most suitable for performers at a tertiary or professional level, in all formats of playing.

Please contact us if you would like to book an appointment to try this beautiful English bow.