W.E Hill & Sons Violin Bow, Ivory Frog

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 violin bow is stamped "W. E. HILL & SONS" and weighs 60.4 grams. Under the frog, it has a match mark of "E", and a year mark of "37". The maker's mark under the mortice on the tip face is a central notch, that of Sydney Yeoman, who worked at Hills between 1890 and 1945. It has an octagonal stick of pernambuco, measuring 74.4cm in length, and has a whalebone lapping and a leather grip. The frog is of ivory with no eye and an angled heel, and is silver mounted with a three-part silver and ivory button. It is in good condition.

It has a rich, powerful sound with plenty of strength, and is perfect for soloistic projection of passion and character. The stick itself has a smooth feel to it, allowing a good transfer of weight into the string for a variety of different gradations of colour, and which responds just as well to broader strokes as it does to fine, delicate textural work. It would be best suited to a professional player performing in soloistic environments, or as part of a chamber group or orchestra.

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