Frank Kovanda

Frank Kovanda - (September 14 1904 – April 21 1993) was an internationally known American maker of bows for stringed instruments (an archetier).

Born in Chicago, he began his profession there in 1921, learning from and working for violin maker John Hornsteiner.

He was for many years associated with William Lewis and Son in Chicago, where he gained recognition for his outstanding ability as a maker of fine bows and their fittings. While in the employ of Lewis and Sons, he also repaired and restored the finest bows that came through the shop. He was hailed as a superb copyist by many including William Lewis and Joseph Roda.

He produced superb copies of bows originally made by Francois Tourte, Dominique Peccatte, Nicolaus Kittel and other famous makers. He also reproduced bow frogs (the heel of the bow).

"One of the great American makers of the mid-20 century. Having worked in Chicago from 1921-1945, he moved to Los Angeles after WWII and established own shop there. Made several hundred bows. Was greatly influenced by the work of F.X. TOURTE. Branded "F.KOVANDA". Some bows were left unstamped (as they were reproductions). Frank died on April 21, 1993." - Gennady Filimonov (2009)

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