The Enduring Legacy of Sartory Violin Bows: Why Their Value Continues to Soar
For musicians and collectors alike, the name Eugène Nicolas Sartory evokes a sense of reverence and admiration. Widely regarded as the finest bow maker of the 20th century, Sartory's creations are not merely tools for music-making; they are highly coveted works of art that consistently command impressive prices in the global market. But what is it about these exquisite bows that makes them so exceptional, and why does their value continue to climb?
The Master Craftsman: Eugène Nicolas Sartory's Unparalleled Artistry
Born in 1871 in Mirecourt, France, a town steeped in the tradition of French bow making, Eugène Nicolas Sartory inherited a rich legacy. He began his apprenticeship under his father, Joseph Sartory, and further refined his skills by working with two of the most influential bow makers of his time: Charles Peccatte and Alfred Lamy in Paris. This rigorous training, combined with his innate talent, laid the foundation for a career marked by innovation and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
At the tender age of 18, in 1889, Sartory established his own workshop in Paris. From the outset, his work was characterized by a consistently high standard of craftsmanship. He absorbed influences from his mentors, particularly Lamy, which led him to develop bows with a broader head and, notably, often octagonal sticks, a feature that became more prominent after 1930. The frogs of his bows frequently exhibit a distinctive 'U' shape, a subtle yet recognizable hallmark of his work.
Sartory's bows are celebrated for their aesthetic perfection and impeccable balance. They are often seen as refined interpretations of earlier models, such as those by François Nicolas Voirin, but with Sartory's unique touch. He meticulously oversaw the quality of every bow that left his workshop, even as demand for his creations grew to such an extent that he employed other talented makers, including Louis Morizot, Jules Fétique, and Louis Gillet, all of whom would go on to become celebrated names in their own right. This dedication to quality control ensured that each Sartory bow, regardless of its specific origin within his workshop, maintained the high standards for which he became known.
Musicians consistently laud Sartory bows for their superior playability and ability to produce a rich, nuanced sound. They are described as strong, responsive, and capable of drawing a fine, rounded tone from an instrument. The choice of high-quality Pernambuco wood, combined with Sartory's masterful camber and balance, contributes to their exceptional efficiency and the ease with which they respond to a player's touch. The inherent feeling of stability and smoothness is also a highly valued characteristic among professional musicians, offering a sense of control and projection that is difficult to replicate.
1931 exhibition bow by Sartory which fetched a world record price at an exhuberant Vichy Enchères sale in 2017.
The Soaring Value: Why Sartory Bows Are a Coveted Investment
The increasing value of Sartory violin bows is a testament to their enduring appeal and the unique combination of factors that make them highly desirable in the global market. Their consistent appreciation in value can be attributed to several key elements:
1. Unwavering Quality and Performance: The primary driver of a Sartory bow's value is its exceptional quality and performance. Musicians, from students to seasoned professionals, recognize and appreciate the superior playability, balance, and sound-producing capabilities of these bows. This consistent demand from the musical community ensures a robust market for authentic Sartory bows. Unlike many mass-produced items, the artistry and precision embedded in each Sartory bow make it a timeless asset.
2. Rarity and Historical Significance: While Eugène Sartory was a prolific maker, producing a significant number of bows during his lifetime, the supply of authentic, well-preserved examples is finite. As time passes, the number of these bows in circulation that remain in excellent condition naturally diminishes, contributing to their increasing rarity. Furthermore, their historical significance as creations of one of the 20th century's most important bow makers adds to their allure. Owning a Sartory bow is not just about possessing a musical instrument; it's about holding a piece of history.
3. Proven Investment Potential: Sartory bows have consistently demonstrated strong investment potential. Auction records and sales data from reputable dealers show a steady upward trend in their prices over decades. For instance, a Sartory violin bow achieved an auction record of $214,270 in November 2017. Other sales frequently see prices ranging from tens of thousands to well over a hundred thousand dollars, depending on the bow's condition, provenance, and specific characteristics. This proven track record makes them an attractive alternative investment for those looking beyond traditional assets.
4. Authenticity and Certification: The market for high-value musical instruments places a significant emphasis on authenticity. For Sartory bows, certification from leading experts, such as J.F. Raffin, is paramount. These certifications provide buyers with assurance of the bow's genuine origin, which is crucial given the existence of copies and forgeries. The presence of a verified certificate significantly enhances a bow's market value and liquidity.
5. The 'Pernambuco' Factor: The vast majority of fine Sartory bows are crafted from Pernambuco wood (Caesalpinia echinata), a dense and resilient wood native to Brazil. This wood possesses unique acoustic properties that are ideal for bow making, contributing to the bow's strength, flexibility, and ability to produce a rich tone. Due to overharvesting and environmental concerns, Pernambuco is now an endangered species, and its export is heavily restricted. This relative scarcity of the primary material will probably further contribute to the increasing value of existing bows made from this wood, including Sartory's.
In conclusion, the escalating value of Sartory violin bows is a multifaceted phenomenon driven by their unparalleled craftsmanship, superior musical performance, historical importance, increasing rarity, and proven investment returns. For musicians, they offer an exceptional playing experience; for collectors, they represent a tangible asset that appreciates over time, solidifying Eugène Nicolas Sartory's legacy as a true master whose creations continue to captivate and inspire.
Increasing Sartory bow prices + world record price in 2017!
🎻 Caring for Your Bow: A Guide for String Players
By Cantabile Fine Bows
A fine bow is more than just a tool — it’s a partner in your playing. Whether you own a 19th-century French bow or a contemporary maker’s work, caring for your bow properly ensures it performs at its best for years to come.
Firstly - Be Careful When Removing Your Bow from the Case!
One of the most common – and easily avoidable – ways to break a bow is by pulling it out of the case too quickly. The bow tip (or “head”) can catch on the edge of the case, especially in cases where the bow holders are snug or misaligned. A sudden tug can cause the stick to snap just behind the head – a notoriously weak point. Always take a moment to guide the bow out gently, making sure it clears the case interior without catching.
Protecting the Handle with Leather or Lizard Grip
Over time, the area where your hand contacts the bow – just above the frog – can wear down from constant use. Adding a leather or lizard-skin grip not only preserves the original winding and stick underneath, but also provides better traction and comfort while playing. This small addition can significantly extend the life of the bow and is particularly worthwhile for older or historically important bows where preserving original materials matters.
Here are some further tips to help keep your bow in top condition:
🧼 1. Clean Off Rosin Regularly
After each practice or performance, gently wipe your bow stick and frog with a soft, dry cloth to remove excess rosin.
Avoid touching the hair — natural oils from your fingers can degrade it.
Don’t use alcohol cleaners - especially near the varnish.
Tip: Use a separate cloth just for your bow to avoid transferring rosin from the violin.
🔄 2. Loosen the Hair After Playing
Always loosen your bow when you’re finished playing. Leaving it tightened can cause:
Warping of the stick
Loss of camber (the bow’s natural curve)
Hair overstretching
Only tighten until there’s a gentle curve and enough clearance between the hair and stick when playing.
🌡️ 3. Watch Temperature and Humidity
Bows are sensitive to environmental changes.
Avoid leaving your bow in a hot car, cold room, or direct sunlight.
Use a case with a humidifier during dry months.
In summer, watch for hair expanding and going slack — don’t overtighten to compensate.
🎯 4. Rosin Wisely
Use only as much rosin as needed.
Too much = scratchy tone and dust buildup
Too little = lack of grip and clarity
Apply rosin evenly from frog to tip — and never force it.
🪛 5. Schedule Rehairs Regularly
Hair loses bite over time, even if it looks fine. Consider a rehair:
Every 6–12 months for regular players
After intense humidity swings or heavy use
If you notice uneven tension or a dull sound
Pro tip: Ask your luthier or bow maker for a rehair schedule based on your climate and usage.
🧳 6. Travel with Care
Always use a sturdy case with proper support for your bow.
Avoid loose bow holders or exposed hair
Never pack your bow in soft luggage or near sharp objects
For flights, keep it in carry-on luggage
🧠 7. Seek Expert Help for Repairs
If your bow gets scratched, chipped, or warped — don’t attempt DIY fixes. An experienced bow maker or restorer can preserve both function and value.
🏷️ Thinking of Investing in a Fine Bow?
At Cantabile Fine Bows, we offer carefully curated bows for every level — from collectors to advanced students. We also offer UK trials, expert advice, and ongoing support after your purchase.
📩 Have questions about caring for your current bow?
Contact us — we’re always happy to help.
James Tubbs: The English Tourte
At Cantabile Fine Bows, we often talk about bows not just as tools, but as vessels of history, craft, and character. Few bow makers embody that sentiment more than James Tubbs (1835–1921)—the most celebrated English archetier of the 19th century.
Often nicknamed “The English Tourte,” Tubbs’ work set a new standard for British bow making. His best sticks continue to be used and admired by leading players and collectors today.
A Family Tradition
Tubbs didn’t emerge in isolation—he was born into a bow-making dynasty. His father, William Tubbs, was a well-respected maker, and James began his training at his father’s bench. Across three generations, the Tubbs family established a distinct English style.
The Hill Connection: A Mark of Early Genius
In the early phase of his career, Tubbs worked for W.E. Hill & Sons, the legendary London firm.
.We’re lucky enough to have one of these rare early examples in our collection: you can just about make out that ‘J Tubbs’ has been stamped over ‘W E Hill ‘.
According to historical accounts, when Tubbs encountered one of his own creations branded with the Hill name, he reasserted authorship by stamping his own name directly over it.
🎶 What Makes a Tubbs Bow So Special?
More than just craftsmanship or history, a Tubbs bow is special because of the sound. There’s something in the way it connects to the string—drawing out depth, richness, and clarity that seems to come from within the violin itself.
Many players speak of a distinct sonic character and resonance that Tubbs bows offer. There’s a tonal core and immediacy that makes them ideal for solo or chamber playing. They seem to encourage the violin to speak more fully, more freely.
Could this be due, in part, to the exceptional Pernambuco Tubbs had access to in the 19th century? Quite possibly. The best early makers worked with old-growth Pernambuco that’s no longer really available today—dense, elastic, and acoustically alive.
Whether it’s the material, the maker’s hand, or an elusive alchemy between the two, one thing is certain:
A Tubbs bow doesn’t just play—it sings!
A Royal Bow Maker
Tubbs’ talents didn’t go unnoticed in his own time. He was appointed Bow Maker to the Duke of Edinburgh (Prince Alfred) and even featured a royal coat of arms on some of his bows. His work earned a gold medal at the 1885 International Exhibition, cementing his reputation as England’s finest.
Lasting Legacy
Whether played on stage or kept in a collection, a Tubbs bow bridges artistry and function in an extraordinary way. His influence on English bow making is still felt today, and his best bows are regularly seen in the hands of top professionals—and fetching significant sums at auction!