H. R. Pfretzschner Violin Bow – Markneukirchen circa 1910-1921 – WOW BOW!

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Stamped:

Hermann Richard Pfretzschner (1876-1958) was born in Markneukirchen into a family of fine bow makers. Hermann learned bow making from his father and worked in his father’s shop his whole life. According to family members and others of his time, he was responsible for new developments in tools and machines in the shop and even a self-rehairing bow called the “Monopol,” but the bow couldn’t gain acceptance in the violin world. In 1914 Hermann took over his father’s firm with his brother Berthold. They worked on optimizing the workshop and expanding the business.

In 1901, H.R. Pfretzschner was granted the distinguished title of “ Königlich Sächsicher Hoflieferant” which means “purveyor to the court of Saxony.” From this time on, he stamped the king’s coat of arms on the frogs of his bows. Around that same period, he made bows following a number of French and English models without losing his own personal style. He was able to supply many bows made in the French style to German firms and others.

This is fine violin bow made circa 1910-1921. The bow is in very good condition. It is a WOW!! Pernambuco, octagonal in section, and in sterling silver mounts. The frog has single 6.0 mm. pearl eyes in the frog. The frog is stamped with the king’s coat of arms in the upper right of the player’s side. The frog has a two-piece heel which is all pinned. The lining of the frog and the button on the endscrew are also pinned. The bow shows me fantastic workmanship from wood, ivory work, and jewelry work to the setting of the pearl. It has the original ivory tip. The pernambuco is choice and is branded on the players’ side” H.R. PFRETZSCHNER.” It is an excellently planned stick; one example is the flowing form of the head with its wide chamfers. I have cleaned the bow at least twice, just linseed oil, and replaced the old leather with a new leather thumb grip. Everything else on the bow is original. What a bow to study. The bow has historical significance and is an excellent playing bow for the serious player.

Weight fully haired 59.9 grams