Viola bow by Manoel Francisco, Brazil, 2022 – Vuillaume Model
This is a fine Vuillaume model viola bow by Manoel Francisco, silver mounted with a length of 746mm and weight of 73.0g. The bow bears its maker’s stamp “MANOEL FRANCISCO” on the handle.
Francisco is regarded as one of Brazil’s finest bowmakers, and has been making bows for both shops and professional players since 1995, also in partnership with L’archet Brasil for special models.
This bow is a testament to his reputation, demonstrating fine workmanship with a real understanding of the French working traditions. Also beautiful red-brown pernambuco with visual depth, made in accordance with CITES regulations at this time.
This bow is modelled on Vuillaume, and a defining aspect of this style is in the frog, with a curved profile to it’s lower half, a heelplate reflecting this geometry, and how the frog is fitted a specific rail carved into the bow handle. It’s great to see a revival of this French bow heritage! Pierre Simon was one of Vuillaume’s finest makers and is definitely worth looking up to understand the originals.
The bow has a great feel, the kind of balance where it feels like an extension of your hand. I’ve very much enjoyed trying it myself. This bow gives a tone which is both clean and also of very capable warmth/depth.
This bow is in excellent condition.
Price: £2,000
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