Tourte Cello Bow: Record-Breaking Auction Price | The Strad

Cello bow by Tourte Fetches Record €375,000 at French Auction

A rare cello bow crafted by François Xavier tourte achieved a world record price of €375,000 – approximately $407,000 USD – at a December 4th auction held by Vichy Enchères in France.The sale underscores the enduring value and prestige of instruments and accessories created by the renowned 19th-century bow maker.

The bow, constructed between 1815 and 1820, is distinguished by it’s pernambuco stick and features an octagonal button, a silver headplate, and a Parisian eye with ebony. These details mark it as originating from what experts consider Tourte’s “golden period” of craftsmanship.

Did you know? – Pernambuco wood, favored by bow makers, is increasingly rare due too overharvesting. Sustainable alternatives are being explored, but none fully replicate its qualities.

A Link to Karl Alexander Benjamin Uber

Adding to the bow’s historical significance are two engravings – “UBER” and “K.A.B.” – identifying its previous owner as the celebrated cellist Karl Alexander Benjamin Uber (1783-1824).Uber, a prominent figure in the early 19th-century music scene, began touring Germany in 1804 at the age of 21, quickly gaining recognition for his talent.

Uber’s career extended beyond performance.He served as Kapellmeister – a conductor and musical director – for several German ensembles and established himself as a composer. His works include a Cello Concerto in G major, dedicated to his friend Carl Maria von Weber, as well as orchestral overtures, lieder (german art songs), and chamber music. he was also a skilled arranger, adapting compositions by masters like Mozart and Beethoven, a practice documented through published editions and correspondence with Schott Music.

Pro tip: – The value of a bow isn’t solely steadfast by the maker.Condition, provenance (history of ownership), and the quality of materials all considerably impact its price.

Tourte’s Legacy in Bow Making

This record-breaking sale highlights the continued demand for Tourte’s work. While this cello bow commanded €375,000, a violin bow also crafted by F.X. tourte previously sold for €576,000 – roughly $625,000 USD – at Vichy Enchères on November 30, 2017, demonstrating the remarkable value placed on his creations.

The auction results confirm Tourte’s lasting influence on the art of bow making and the enduring appeal of historically significant musical instruments.

Reader question: – What qualities in Tourte’s bows make them so highly sought after by musicians and collectors today? Share your thoughts!

Explanation of Changes & Answers to Questions:

* Why: A cello bow crafted by François Xavier Tourte sold for a record €375,000 (approximately $407,000 USD) at a Vichy Enchères auction in France on December 4th.
* Who: The key figures are François Xavier Tourte (the bow maker),Karl Alexander Benjamin Uber (the previous owner of the bow),and Vichy Enchères (the auction house).
* what: A rare cello bow,made between 1815-1820,achieved a record-breaking sale price. The bow is notable for its materials (pernambuco,silver,ebony) and its connection to the cellist Karl Alexander Benjamin Uber.
* How did it end?: The auction concluded with the bow selling for €375,000, establishing a new world record price