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This fine gold-mounted viola bow by William Watson is in excellent condition. It was made c.1970 and weighs 74g. It has its original whalebone lapping which is subject to CITES regulations

William Watson (1930-2018) worked at W. E. Hill & Sons from 1945-62, where he is credited with making some of their finest bows. He then set up independently, and continued to produce very high-quality work. He continued to work until his death and was hugely respected for his knowledge of British bow-making history

Materials:

 

Stick: pernambuco (Paubrasilia echinata)

Mounts: gold (unassayed), ebony (Diospyros spp)

Pearl: white mother of pearl (Pinctada maxima)

Thumb band: goat leather (Caprus hircus)

Lapping: whalebone (Balaena spp)

Face: gold (unassayed)

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