A Violin Bow by Nicolas Maline

A Vuillaume-Style Masterpiece with Distinguished Provenance

Overview

This violin bow, crafted in Paris circa 1865 by Nicolas Maline and modeled in the celebrated Vuillaume style, represents a remarkable example of nineteenth-century French bow making. Its historical significance is further elevated by its provenance: the bow belonged to Arnold Steinhardt, renowned violinist, pedagogue, and founding first violinist of the Guarneri String Quartet.

Maline’s Roots as a Maker

Nicolas Maline (1822–1877) was one of the most important French bow makers of his era. Trained in Mirecourt and later active in Paris, Maline worked for the esteemed J.B. Vuillaume workshop, where he absorbed the technical and stylistic innovations that defined the golden age of French bow making.
Maline’s bows are known for their elegant proportions, refined heads, and superb playing qualities. His work in the Vuillaume style is particularly prized for its balance, resilience, and nuanced response—attributes that have made these bows favorites among prominent soloists and chamber musicians.

Characteristics of c. 1865 Vuillaume-Style Bows

• Model: Typically round stick, strong yet flexible, with a head and frog reflecting Vuillaume’s influence—crisp lines, Parisian eye, and silver mountings.

• Playing Qualities: Quick response, broad tonal palette, and exceptional clarity, suitable for the demands of both solo and ensemble work.

• Provenance: This particular bow was owned and played by Arnold Steinhardt, whose artistry and career with the Guarneri Quartet set a benchmark for twentieth-century violin performance and pedagogy.

Legacy

Nicolas Maline’s bows are regarded as benchmarks of French craftsmanship, and those with direct connections to legendary performers are especially coveted. This bow, with its distinguished provenance, offers not only the finest playing qualities but also a tangible link to the legacy of Arnold Steinhardt and the golden age of string performance.