Frank Huang, the concertmaster of the New York Philharmonic, recently acquired an important violin bow through a private sale by Tarisio.
Crafted by renowned bow maker Pierre Simon, it was originally made for Belgian diplomat Prince Caraman de Chimay as part of a decorated quartet commissioned by Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume, the most famous French violin maker of the 19th century.
The bow, which is adorned with the Caraman de Chimay family’s coat of arms and intricate engravings, is mounted in ebony and gold.
Among its features is the family’s Latin motto “Juvat Pietas,” meaning “piety helps,” engraved on the metal elements, along with other symbols associated with the Chimay lineage.
This particular bow is one of the few surviving pieces from the original quartet and has now entered the hands of a modern-day master. Reflecting on his purchase, Huang stated, “I am honoured to have acquired this extraordinary bow and to continue its illustrious legacy — many thanks to Tarisio for this opportunity.”
Tarisio, known for orchestrating private sales and auctions of fine instruments and bows, facilitated the sale, adding another chapter to the bow’s long and storied history.
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