H.R. PFRETZSCHNER French-style hybrid frog

H.R. Pfretzschner Double Bass Bow – Approx. 100 Years OldRare Hybrid Frog – French Style with German-Inspired Details

A beautiful and highly playable antique double bass bow by H.R. Pfretzschner, estimated to be around 100 years old and made in Markneukirchen, Germany.

Hermann Richard Pfretzschner (1857–1921) was one of the most respected German bow makers of his time and served as a Royal Court Supplier. Bows from the Pfretzschner workshop are known for their excellent craftsmanship, refined balance, stable sticks, and dependable playing qualities.

This bow has a particularly interesting and unusual feature:
it is fitted with a French-style frog, but with subtle German-inspired design details, creating a rare and distinctive hybrid appearance. This combination gives the bow both elegance and individuality, and is not something commonly seen from this maker or period.

Description

• Original antique double bass bow by H.R. Pfretzschner
• Estimated to be approximately 100 years old
• Handcrafted in Markneukirchen, Germany
• Stamped “H.R. Pfretzschner”
• Fitted with a French-style frog featuring subtle Germanic design influence
• Well-balanced and responsive
• Suitable for both orchestral and solo playing
• Strong, stable stick with good elasticity and attractive wood figure
• Professionally repaired minor damage, with no negative impact on playability
• Mechanically sound and ready to play

Playing Characteristics

The bow feels easy to control, responds quickly, and produces an open, full, and clearly defined tone. It has the kind of playing qualities often associated with the better bows from the Pfretzschner tradition: stable handling, musical flexibility, and a confident sound.

Its combination of antique character, excellent usability, and the rare hybrid frog design makes it especially appealing both as a player’s bow and as an interesting historical piece.

Ideal For

Discerning double bass players, professional musicians, conservatory students, and collectors with an interest in historical German bow making and rare Pfretzschner examples.