Gustave Bernardel initially worked with his father, Auguste (Bernardel pere) and later took over the workshop with his brother, Ernest. This world famous firm later became 'Gand & Bernardel' and Gustave went on to be awarded 'Chevalier de la Legion d’honneur'.

The stick is attributed to Claude Thomassin (who made bows for Gand & Bernardel), however, it came to us with a cheap German trade frog which clearly didn’t belong to the stick. A new frog was commissioned from Melbourne’s own resident bow expert, Lennox Holt, and the bow again looks and works perfectly.

The bow comprises a round pernambuco stick with silver mounted ebony frog. It produces a refined, clean and clear sound with a versatile tone range, noticeably warm and supple. It has a very good spiccato response, is beautifully balanced and plays easily.

Gustave Bernardel French Cello Bow, Paris c.1890

Reference: VCB159