Émile François Ouchard "Père", fine French viola bow

This fine viola bow is a mature piece by Émile François Ouchard père that perfectly articulates the sense of authority which defined the late oeuvre of this remarkable master. Crafted around 1940, the bow was created during the beginning of what would be the final phase of Ouchard's career and life, a phase in which he gradually became estranged from his son and student Émile Auguste Ouchard – a tragic story of two gifted artists whose collaborative efforts and family ties were ultimately ended due to the irreconcilable conflicts between such strong and complicated personalities. As a result, this viola bow serves as a witness to an interpersonal tragedy whilst still representing the finest French bow making art. Its round stick was made of pernambuco of the utmost quality; above the rounded ebony frog with a Parisian eye, the original personal stamp of Émile François Ouchard can still be seen, although it is somewhat worn by the frequent use it received from previous owners who clearly enjoyed playing it. With its centrally position balance point that tends slightly towards the tip, this Ouchard père viola bow, which was also maintained in perfect condition, offers all of the merits of an indubitably French large viola sound with a sophisticated character. Furthermore, its nuanced playing properties allow for precise interpretations of demanding literature.