Musical Instruments & Bows

An Active Department in the Art and Music Market

A historical specialty of Aguttes, the Instruments & Bows Department highlights the work of the best luthiers and bow makers, showcasing masterpieces whose resonance attests to unique craftsmanship. Fine instruments are always highly sought after and reach record prices at auctions. For example, in June 2022, a Guarnerius “del Gesù” violin sold for 3.3 million euros. Paris, an essential hub in the art and music market, serves as an exceptional showcase for carefully selected items.

Bidders from around the world demonstrate an active market, both nationally and internationally, and a passion for beautiful pieces of our heritage. Hector Chemelle, a violinist from the Conservatoire de Paris, is well aware of buyers' expectations. He offers instrument trials by appointment and personalized advice. This openness to musicians for quartet instruments, historically reserved for intermediate professionals, gathers a broad community of virtuoso buyers, luthiers, collectors, and enthusiasts, driving up auction prices.

Remarkable Violin and Cello Auctions

From violins to cellos, including violas, from the 18th to the 20th century, signed or anonymous, these lutherie marvels have always fascinated. And where there are strings, there are often bows. It's important not to forget them, as these precious pieces of wood can sometimes be more valuable than the instruments they accompany.

Good to Know: Our Musical Instruments Department organizes two auctions per year in Paris. These auctions follow the calendar of major events dedicated to music and musicians.

Achieving World Records with International Buyers

With its strong communication capabilities and international buyers, Aguttes regularly achieves world records. The house offers unique communication strength and provides sellers with modern and targeted tools for effective international dissemination. We pay special attention to the production of the auction catalog, both in its design and content, whether in paper or fully digital format. During our campaigns, we mobilize buyers from our portfolio across all specialties and identified potential buyers. We communicate with them using various channels; online and offline advertisements, social networks, emailings, media, influencers, auction platforms with quality and adapted supports; image, text, and video...

Free and confidential valuations of musical instruments and bows

Our specialist is at your disposal to appraise your string instruments and bows, offering professional expertise along with guidance on sales or investment.

He travels throughout France and across Europe, in collaboration with our regional representative offices, to provide valuations and appraisals of your string instruments and bows.
Before scheduling an appointment, you can also submit your valuation request—along with a description, photographs, and any available documentation related to your string instruments and bows—via the online valuation request form or directly by email to our specialist.