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Nicolas Maire

Nicolas Maire was born in Mirecourt in 1800. The exact location of his training is unclear, but it is likely that he worked for Etienne Pajeot for a few years before establishing himself in his home town in 1826. His early bows were branded N. Maire., then N. Maire, without the final full stop, and from about 1845, simply Maire. He remained in Mirecourt until 1853, employing a number of workers, and supplying bows to Pajeot, but in that year he moved to Paris, where he worked for Vuillaume, Gand and Chanot. His style in the 1850s was strongly influenced by Dominique Peccatte, whose work he presumably became acquainted with through Vuillaume, as Peccatte had left Paris in 1847. Maire continued to work in Paris until his death in 1878, and his bows are highly sought after.

Nicolas Maire

(b Mirecourt, 1800; d Paris, 1878)

Nicolas Maire was born in Mirecourt in 1800. The exact location of his training is unclear, but it is likely that he worked for Etienne Pajeot for a few years before establishing himself in his home town in 1826. His early bows were branded N. Maire., then N. Maire, without the final full stop, and from about 1845, simply Maire. He remained in Mirecourt until 1853, employing a number of workers, and supplying bows to Pajeot, but in that year he moved to Paris, where he worked for Vuillaume, Gand and Chanot. His style in the 1850s... Read more

Instruments for sale in our Private Sales

A silver-mounted violin bow by Nicolas Maire

Paris, Paris, circa 1826-30

This exceptionally well-preserved example by one of the most sought after bow makers is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors and players to obtain a bow in a state of... read more

A silver-mounted violin bow by Nicolas Maire

Paris, Paris, circa 1826-30

This exceptionally well-preserved example by one of the most sought after bow makers is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors and players to obtain a bow in a state of preservation that is close to how it left the maker’s hand. The original lapping is well preserved and the stamp is crisp and clear.

Illustrated in Millant & Raffin’s famed book ‘L’Archet’, vol II, p.136, it is described by Bernard Millant as a rare and beautiful specimen, in practically new condition.

A silver-mounted cello bow by Nicolas Maire

Paris, circa 1870

Nicolas Maire, who is presumed to have trained with Étienne Pajeot, set up his own business in 1826. He supplied bows to the most prestigious French dealers of his time,... read more

A silver-mounted cello bow by Nicolas Maire

Paris, circa 1870

Nicolas Maire, who is presumed to have trained with Étienne Pajeot, set up his own business in 1826. He supplied bows to the most prestigious French dealers of his time, amongst them Gand and J.B. Vuillaume. This bow dates from his last years and is of the highest quality, original in all parts, and extremely well preserved. With an ideal weight and balance it is a very strong and reliable partner for any cellist looking for a rich and clear sound.

A silver-mounted violin bow by Nicolas Maire

Paris, circa 1845

This elegant and characteristic bow by one of the most sought after bow makers is truly a player’s bow. Its range of overtones is extraordinary, as is its ability to... read more

A silver-mounted violin bow by Nicolas Maire

Paris, circa 1845

This elegant and characteristic bow by one of the most sought after bow makers is truly a player’s bow. Its range of overtones is extraordinary, as is its ability to mould the sound according to a player’s imagination. Truly an example that combines the charm of an old sound world with modern playing requirements.

Instruments we have sold by this maker

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Selling with Ingles & Hayday

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Buying at Ingles & Hayday

Tim Ingles and Paul Hayday will offer an initial evaluation of the authenticity and value of your instrument or bow to recommend an auction estimate and reserve price for your instrument or bow...

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Written Valuations & Certificates

Tim Ingles and Paul Hayday will offer an initial evaluation of the authenticity and value of your instrument or bow. At this stage, the assessment is free and without obligation. In the first instance, we suggest submitting good-quality images to us, preferably by email to info@ingleshayday.com or by completing the valuation form.

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    Buying at Ingles & Hayday

    We hold two auctions a year at Sotheby’s in London, generally in March and October. We also have a selection of instruments and bows for private sale all year round. Please contact us for more information.

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