Hart & Son Bow London

This violin bow was made by the Hart and Son firm in the late 19th or early 20th Century, in London. The Hart family's connection with the violin world ostensibly starts with John Thomas Hart (1805-1874), a maker who apprenticed with noted English luthier Samuel Gilkes and is reported by William Henley to have seen and handled more Cremonese master instruments than any of his British contemporaries. His son, George Hart (1839-1891) was subsequently a renowned instrument connoisseur and dealer across Europe, writing a number of different books about violins, makers, and performers. The firm Hart & Son was then established by George Hart's son, also named George Hart, who set himself up in Wardour St, London, building on the expertise of his father with a team of makers and copyists to produce fine, new English instruments and bows. 

The bow is stamped "HART & SON" and weighs 61.0 grams. It has a round stick of pernambuco with a whalebone lapping, leather grip, and a gold face. The frog is fully gold mounted, with a Parisian eye, and a gold button. It is in good condition. 

This violin bow has a wonderfully strong stick, yet is agile enough to achieve the feeling of sinking into the string. The bow feels quite balanced, making it very easy to achieve an even tone at both the frog and the tip. The sound is crisp and light, giving players immense clarity on each of their notes and responds quickly to directional and dynamic changes. This bow would do well in solo or chamber music playing for the tertiary or professional musician.

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