Eugène Sartory cello bow, Paris circa 1895

Regarded as one of the finest bow makers in history, Eugène Nicolas Sartory (1871-1946), was an exceptionally influential French archetier active in Paris in the early 20th century. Born in Mirecourt, Sartory studied bow making with his father, Joseph Eustache Sartory (1839-1902), before moving to Paris in 1889 to work for Charles Peccatte and later for Joseph Alfred Lamy. Around 1893, Sartory established his own business near the workshop of Joseph Arthur Vigneron-to whom he was related by marriage and closely associated professionally. Sartory's innovative bow models with a broader head and a thicker shaft produced stronger, sturdier bows with playing characteristics favored by prominent musicians of the day, including Belgian violin virtuoso Eugène Ysaÿe. As the demand for his bows increased, Sartory expanded his workshop, employing some of the most distinguished bow makers in France, including Louis Joseph Morizot, Jules Fétique, and Louis Henri Gillet. Bows by Sartory are among the most sought after by professional players and collectors.

Sold with a certificate of authenticity from the Cabinet D'Archetiers Experts