Silver mounted violin bow by August Rau

This violin bow originates from the workshop of the Markneukirchen bow maker August Rau. Rau learned the artisanry of bow making in the 80ies of the 19th century from the Nürnberger family. He worked in Dresden for several years, perfecting his skills by the help of the renowned masters Knopf and Weichold. In the year 1890 he established his own business in Markneukirchen. In the early 20th century he manufactured this octagonal violin bow, bearing Rau's original stamp AUG.RAU on the shaft above the frog. Rau used fine pernambuco wood of medium strength and good elasticity. The ebony frog is sterling silver mounted and features a beautiful silver framed Parisian eye and a marvelous nacre slide. The felt balance-point of the 74,2 cm long bow is centered, the measured balance-point is at 26,0 cm from the frog end. The bow produces a warm, mellow and deep sound.