Violin bow by Nicolas Maire, Mirecourt, circa 1830

About Nicolas Maire

Nicolas Rémy Maire was born in Mirecourt in 1800 and likely served his apprenticeship with the great Étienne Pajeot. He opened his own workshop in Mirecourt in 1826, but sadly the business fell victim to the difficult economic climate of the 1830s. A period of financial difficulty followed, though his work remained prolific and of excellent quality.

Maire relocated to Paris around 1853, a few years after the death of Pajeot, who had been an important source of work for him in Mirecourt. There he produced bows for Vuillaume, Gand, and Chanot, as well as under his own name. He died in Paris in 1878, having produced very many fine bows which are now sought after by players and collectors alike.

About the violin bow

This bow was made in Mirecourt around 1830.

The round stick is made of highly figured pernambuco and measures 726 mm in length. The mounts are of nickel and ebony.

The bow weighs 59 and a half grams.

How does it play?

This bow is for those who prize sound above all else. It produces a sound like a kaleidoscope, capable of piercing high harmonics for amazing projection, and great richness. When I was learning the violin, I remember being told ‘your sound is your bank balance’. If this is true, then the new owner will be very rich indeed!

Condition

The bow is in excellent condition with minor signs of use, and a UV condition report is available.

Certification

The bow comes with the 2023 certificate of Cabinet Jean-François Raffin.

More information

For more options, please view other violin bows in this price range.