The Maker:

Arthur Bowler was born in Thame, Oxfordshire in 1867. He learned the art of joinery, and worked for builders, shop-fitters etc. in London, before becoming apprentice to Joseph Anthony Chanot in Wardour Street from 1895-1899, where he had the opportunity to repair many fine instruments and became principal assistant. He then came under the patronage of the great German violinist August Wilhelmj, and was entrusted with the repairing and adjusting of his large collection of Pressenda instruments. Bowler established his own shop in Islington in 1899. Throughout his life, he built about 40 violins, many of which were modelled after the Messie Strad. In his renowned book Universal Dictionary of Violin & Bow Makers, William Henley says of Arthur Bowler’s work: “We anticipate great distinction for these instruments. They will stand out from the multitude, connoisseurs will revert continually to them as having a rare conjunction of perfect tonal maturity and unimpaired structural solidity” (157).

Appearance:

This particular violin made in 1901 is a beautiful example of Bowler’s crafstmanship.  It has a beautiful deep red-over-gold varnish and a stunning one-piece maple back.

Sound & Feel:

It has a bold sound, with a beautiful ringing tone and gutsy core. The response is quick, facilitating agility across all registers.  This would be a fantastic choice for an advanced to professional violinist.

Materials:

Belly: Spruce, Two-piece

Back: Maple, One-piece

Specs:

Back Length: 35.7 cm

String Length: 33.0 cm