A Rare Violin Bow by Theodor Hermann Pfretzschner, Markneukirchen circa 1945

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The Pfretzschner name is one of the most easily recognized and respected names in the violin industry, representing a dynasty spanning generations and as far back as the 15th century, tracing its roots to historic Markneukirchen where their family atelier was established in 1834. Theodor Hermann Pfretzschner (1915-1979) began working in the family workshop at the age of 15 in 1930 and married in 1948. His work, personally branded either “Theodor Pfretzschner” or “T.H. Pfretzschner,” indicate that he began working independently.

Our “T.H. Pfretzschner” violin bow is a well-preserved example from this less commonly seen master from the Pfretzschner family. The bow has been completely gone over in our workshop and is in very good condition. I believe the bow was made before the conclusion of WWII and the dividing of Germany between the Allies. This silver mounted bow is original in all its parts. I purchased the bow some 42 years ago as a young man from Judith Hradetsky, a professional violinist who knew my grandmother in New York City. Judith was a professional violinist in the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra and later in the Miami Symphony. I believe I met her son who also played professionally. The bow is pernambuco specie, octagonal in section, sterling silver mounted, and the frog has single mother-of-pearl eyes and a three piece endscrew. The bow is firm in its strength and plays better than well. It delivers effortless sustain with a somewhat velvety or slightly darker texture and delivers on sophisticated articulations. This bow responds to demands for dynamic contrast and feels like a dream in my hands. Fantastic stick, this is a Wow bow! that is part of history from a famous Markneukirchen family of bow makers.

Weight fully haired 60.1 grams