Arnold Voigt Silver Mounted Violin Bow – Markneukirchen circa 1910-1920

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Arnold Voigt (1864-1952) was a student of Heinrich Theodor Heberlein, studying under him for six years. He was the first of the Voigt family to settle in England (from 1885 until 1890) and some of his stringed instruments, especially his violins, were made there. In 1890, he returned to his birth city, Markneukirchen, where he originally studied and grew up and began making instruments and bows. I have witnessed both and I would say his violins are as nice as his bows. They are both held in high regard, and in the Henly book he is called “an expert bow maker”. Yes, this bow is exceptional. Voigt had an eye for elegance and precision work; his bows check all the boxes for serious players while his design, pernambuco choice, and his attention to detail are all found in this bow.

The bow is pernambuco, octagonal in section, and sterling silver mounted. The silver mounts not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the bow but also ensure durability and stability, making this stick a reliable choice for a serious player and everyday use. The bow received a new facial plate. The original ivory plate was cracked and had to be replaced. The head rises straight up, and the plate is only slightly curved, very indicative of French bow making than German. The incrementation of the facets is very gentle and the stick has no excess girth. I also gave the bow a new sterling silver winding and new thumb leather. The frog looks like it came straight out of a Markneukirchen shop. Arnold must have soaked everything up with whom he studied and took his learning to another level too. That’s what excellent apprentices do. He is also from a large family of makers. There are no less than 43 Voigt makers that attest to that name, before and after Arnold. The frog… continues. The heel is one-piece, all sterling, and has two fine pins while the lining is also held with two fine silver pins. I gave the frog two new mother-of-pearl eyes matching the slide in color as close as possible. The bow has a three-piece endscrew button and the collar has a flange followed by two very fine turns. The silver mounted frog is on the slender side and is very easy to hold. I’m a guy totally into restorative bow work and this bow oozes fine woodworking craftsmanship but also his silver work is fantastic. This pernambuco bow has great strength but also flexibility all wrapped up in a dark chocolate color that is beautiful. If you’re looking for a truly authentic violin bow, one to elevate your playing, this is it.

Weight fully haired 61.7 grams