A Fine French Viola Bow By F.X. Bazin, Circa 1850.

A Fine French Viola Bow by Francois Xavier Bazin (1824-1865). FX Bazin is regarded as the patriarch of one of the most esteemed Mirecourt bow making dynasties; characteristic work with clear influences from Simon and Peccatte, with whom he purportedly studied as early as 1840 (though there is no evidence to support this claim). Established his own workshop in 1845, had six children, and died young - passing the workshop to his son and prolific successor, Charles Nicolas Bazin II.

This fine example dates to about 1850; amourette stick with nickel mounts and ivory tip facing - original in all its parts with a final balanced weight of 67.8 grams. Highly characteristic of the maker with absolutely charming detail work to the head and thumb projection of the frog. Nimble and active performance, with easy and well defined articulations and a broad velvety sound. In my opinion, of particular interest to those wishing to broaden or temper the brighter tendencies of some smaller violas.