W.E. Hill & Sons Gold Mounted Violin Bow London

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 59.29 grams. Under the frog, it has a match mark of "U", and a year mark of "33", gold mark of "22". The maker's mark under the mortice on the tip face is a "5", that of Arthur Barnes, who worked at Hills between 1920 and 1939. The stick has been rounded and is of pernambuco, measuring 74.4cm in length, and has a whalebone lapping and a leather grip. The frog is of tortoiseshell with a gold fleur de lis inlay and is gold mounted with a three-part gola and tortoiseshell button with a pearl eye on each facet. It is in good condition, however has had some damage to the frog which has been factored into the price.

This bow has strong and powerful stick. It is well balanced from frog to tip and provides clarity in both long and short notes. It takes very little effort to produce a bounce for strokes such as spiccato, ricochet and saltando, making it very easy to meet the demands of this type of playing. 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.