A Fine Silver-Mounted English Violin Bow by James Tubbs, circa 1890

A Fine Silver-Mounted English Violin Bow by James Tubbs, circa 1890

Unanimously considered to be the most important English bow maker, and known as "The English Tourte", the bows of James Tubbs have been sought after since Tubbs himself was manufacturing them. Sold through a variety of distributors in London (including during his time with the renowned firm of W.E. Hill & Sons) as well as from his own workshop and bearing his own brand (Jas TUBBS from about 1878, as seen in this example), his bows are extremely popular with players (including composer Edward Elgar) and he is generally accepted to be among the top five makers throughout the course of bow making history.

This beautiful silver-mounted example, featuring the elegant elongated button and slender frog and ferrule synonymous with his work, was the primary professional bow of a now-retired orchestra leader, and was originally purchased by him at J. & A. Beare Ltd. in London. A phenomenal bow by any standards, and available now.