My Late Baroque “Sonata” Bow

My Late Baroque “Sonata” Bow (ca. 1740), Basil de Visser, Rome 2025

This was the very first bow that caught my interest when I began exploring the world of period bows. Weighing in at "just" 53.7 grams, it’s not the lightest Baroque bow out there—but that’s exactly what I like about it. It produces a fat, dark sound, yet remains agile and articulate, a balance I find both expressive and versatile.

As with much of the 18th century, there was no single “standard” for bows—designs varied widely depending on region, maker, and purpose. This model, often referred to as a “sonata” bow, is a perfect example of that rich diversity.

It’s made of beautifully flamed snakewood, which was the predominant material for bows of the time. The open frog and button are also made from the same piece of wood, giving it a refined, unified aesthetic—and a beautiful feel in the hand.