Violin Bow by Nicolas Maline, c. 1855

Made in Mirecourt around 1855 by one of the finest French makers at the time, Nicolas Maline, this is a very original example of his work. The stick is made of a richly coloured tropical wood, very similar in properties to pernambuco. This was actually very common at the time with many makers using tropical woods, such as amourette to make bows. The head, elegantly elongated with softened, rounded lines, is highly characteristic of Maline's work, giving the bow a very refined appearance. The ebony frog and nickel button are made in the Vuillaume style. Maline bows are appreciated for their combination of strength, elegance, and playing qualities that have made him sought-after by musicians worldwide.