The Collection
Viola da Gamba bows
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To my knowledge, there are no preserved French Baroque viola da gamba bows known to exist.
Many bow makers have made an educated guess as to what such bows might have looked like, and I have seen some beautiful interpretations, particularly for the Marin Marais type.
My own interpretation is based on a painting of Marin Marais by André Bouys, dated 1704, from the Musée de la Musique in Paris, as well as a contemporary print that is available from several sources.
Baroque
after Marin Marais, 1704
The last years I made several copies of this bow, with two different frog fixations.
Most players preferred the clip-in frog, which is the most logical solution.
Modern copy
Bouman bow, c.1980
72–78 g
Copy of a Bouman bow, c.1980, the original is in possession of mr. Pandolfi. Weight: 72-78 grams.
Looking for a bow?
Tell me about your instrument and the music you play. I will reply personally.