A Masterpiece of English Bow Making: W. E. Hill & Sons Gold-Mounted HTS "Tortoiseshell" Fleur-de-Lys Viola Bow by Matthew Coltman

We are privileged to present a pinnacle of late 20th-century British bow making: a gold-mounted viola bow, stamped W. E. Hill & Sons, meticulously crafted by the highly acclaimed master maker Matthew Coltman during his tenure at the legendary Hill workshop.

This bow features a frog crafted from HTS (Hill Tortoiseshell Substitute)—a proprietary, highly sophisticated synthetic tortoiseshell developed in-house by the Hill firm. Combined with solid gold fittings and the iconic inlaid gold fleur-de-lys, this configuration represents the absolute highest tier of luxury and craftsmanship produced by the Hill workshop in this era. Historically reserved only for their finest sticks, "Fleur-de-Lys" Hill bows are globally recognized as elite collector's pieces and formidable tools for the concert artist.

The Maker & Workshop Pedigree

W. E. Hill & Sons was long recognized as the premier epicenter of English bow making, employing a strict system to train the nation's finest craftsmen.

This specific bow is the work of Matthew Coltman (Hill Workshop Maker Number 19). Trained originally at the Newark School of Violin Making, Coltman refined his bow-making mastery at Hills. He later went on to establish a stellar independent reputation as one of the UK's foremost makers of modern and period bows. His work for the Hill firm is highly sought after for its exceptional playability, structural integrity, and adherence to the strict, historic aesthetic standards of the house.

Performance History & Lineage

A bow of this caliber is inherently a concert instrument. This particular bow has been the primary choice of a highly distinguished, conservatory-trained British violist and conductor who studied under absolute legends of the twentieth-century viola school.

Tested and proven across decades of a demanding, high-level musical career, its performance lineage includes:

• Masterwork Concertos: Relied upon for public solo performances of the cornerstones of viola literature, including the Walton, Bartók, and Hindemith concertos.

• Premier London Recitals: Featured prominently in critically acclaimed solo recitals at elite venues, including London's Purcell Room.

• Chamber Music Mastery: Driven through extensive professional string quartet work and high-profile ensemble collaborations, proving its incredible versatility and tracking under pressure.

Characteristics & Technical Specifications

• The Stick: Exquisite, dense Pernambuco of the highest selection. Possesses a perfectly balanced, strong yet supple character that grips the string effortlessly, producing a clear, brilliant, and multi-layered sound.

• The Frog: Meticulously fashioned from HTS synthetic tortoiseshell, offering the beautiful, translucent, highly figured depth of the natural material with flawless stability. It is perfectly complemented by a solid gold fleur-de-lys inlay on each side.

• Fittings: Three-part gold button with pearl inlays to the facets and inlaid with a pearl eye.

• Condition: Exceptional professional playing condition, bearing the hallmarks of an instrument meticulously cared for by a seasoned professional.

?? Freedom of International Travel (No CITES Required)

Because the frog is crafted from Hill’s specialized HTS synthetic material rather than genuine endangered tortoiseshell, this bow is completely exempt from CITES restrictions. It can be bought, sold, and traveled with internationally across borders without the need for complex customs permits, making it the ultimate hassle-free touring bow for the international performer.

This bow represents a rare convergence of investment-grade art and peak mechanical performance. For weight specifications, condition reports, or to book an appointment in our private practice room, please contact our specialists.

The octagonal stick of Pernambuco of a dark orange-brown colour. Gold mounted HTS tortoiseshell frog inlaid with fleur-de-lys, three-part gold-mounted on ebony adjust with pearl inlays to each facet and inlaid with pearl eye. Gold headplate.

Stamped W.E.HILL & SONS on the shaft.

Weight 72.6 grams

Delivery

We deliver to customers across the UK and worldwide. Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive an email confirmation with your shipping details and tracking number.

We work with trusted courier partners such as UPS and Parcelforce to ensure the safe and prompt delivery of your purchase.

Please note that if you cancel your order for any reason other than those set out in our Returns and Refund Policy (for example, if you change your mind prior to dispatch or shortly after), we reserve the right to deduct any associated payment processing fees—such as PayPal or card transaction charges—from the amount refunded.

Returns and Exchanges

We understand that sometimes a product may not meet your expectations. You may return your item within 30 days of delivery for a full refund, provided it is in its original packaging and in resaleable condition. The cost of return shipping is the responsibility of the customer unless the product is faulty or incorrectly supplied.

Please include your full contact details and either the original invoice or a note clearly stating your name, address, order number, and whether you’d like an exchange or refund.

Returns should be sent to:

Standard Returns Policy

We are happy to exchange or refund any item that is faulty, damaged, or unsuitable for your needs. To qualify, items must be returned within 14 days of receipt, in perfect condition, and in their original sealed packaging with all labels and seals intact.

Your statutory rights are not affected. Please refer to our full Refund Policy below for additional information.

How to Return an Item (UK Customers)

• Pack the item securely in its original packaging (or an alternative sturdy box if necessary).
• Remove any old delivery labels.
• Enclose your invoice or a note including your name, address, contact details, and order number.
• Use a tracked postal or courier service of your choice when sending your return.
• Customers are responsible for the cost of return postage, which will not be reimbursed unless the item is found to be faulty or sent in error.

Once we receive your return, we will process it within 14 days. Refunds will be made to your original payment method, minus any applicable postage costs or transaction fees.

UK Exchanges

If you wish to exchange an item, we will cover the postage for the first replacement to UK addresses. Please include a note with your parcel clearly stating the item you wish to receive in exchange.

International Returns

Customers returning items from outside the UK are required to use a duty-paid service. Returns sent via duty unpaid or held by customs cannot be accepted.

Please securely repack your item (preferably in its original packaging) and remove all old shipping labels. We do not cover international return shipping costs. You must use a tracked, insured service suitable for your region.

Standard Returns Address

Please include your contact details, invoice, or a note indicating whether you would like a refund or exchange. You are responsible for paying return postage costs, and we recommend adequate postal insurance in case your parcel is lost or damaged in transit.

For any return queries, please email enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london.

Refunds

Refunds are issued to the original payment method used for purchase. While we aim to process all refunds within 24 hours of receiving the return, please allow up to 10 working days for the funds to appear in your account, depending on your payment provider.

In cases where an item is faulty, we may reimburse reasonable return postage costs upon confirmation. Please contact us at enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london for assistance.

Refunds will only be processed once the returned goods have been received and inspected. Proof of postage must be retained as evidence of return.

Refund Policy Summary

• Returns are accepted within 14 days of receipt.
• Items must be unused, in their original packaging, with all tags attached.
• Returns without prior approval may not be accepted.
• Certain items are non-returnable, including perishable goods, custom-made items, personal goods, sale items, and gift cards.
• Damaged or defective items must be reported immediately upon receipt.
• Refunds, once approved, are issued to the original payment method. Original shipping charges are non-refundable, and deductions may apply for payment processing fees (e.g., PayPal).

For return requests or questions, please contact: enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london.