We are pleased to offer this fine viola bow crafted by bow maker Bernard Ouchard for examination, trial and purchase.
Bow Type: Viola Bow
Year: Circa 1955
Price: Sold
Maker: Bernard Ouchard
Dimensions: Weight: 71.4 g.
The Viola Bow
A fine gold-mounted viola bow by Bernard Ouchard, made in Geneva circa 1955 for the firm of Pierre Vidoudez and branded “VIDOUDEZ GENÈVE.”
The octagonal stick is crafted from fine pernambuco and fitted with an ebony and gold faceplate. The tortoiseshell frog is mounted in gold with gold-inlaid Parisian eyes, complemented by an ebony adjuster with gold overlay. A traditional whalebone wrap and leather thumb grip complete the bow.
The bow remains in excellent condition and is accompanied by a 2026 certificate from Isaac Salchow. It was formerly owned by violist Dr. Thomas G. Hall.
The Maker
Bernard Ouchard (1925–1979) was one of the important French bow makers of the 20th century. Trained by his father, Émile Auguste Ouchard, he joined the Vidoudez firm in Geneva in 1949, where he remained until 1971 and produced many of his finest bows. He later returned to Mirecourt as professor of bow making at the École de Lutherie, where his teaching helped shape a new generation of leading French bow makers and contributed significantly to the revival of the French bow-making tradition.
Certification
This fine viola bow has been certified by Isaac Salchow