German Double Bass circa 1880 - #2759 |
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Tell me about this instrument. This is a decently made instrument. The quality of the timber used in the back, ribs and scroll are highly figured and the carving detail of the scroll, f-holes and purfilling are well executed, controlled and neat. What sort of a model is it? This is a viol shaped instrument with a flat back. It has an upper angle break of only a few degrees and there is a strip of ebony that runs along the back centre join. Is there a maker's label? No - there aren't any labels, inscriptions or brands in the instrument at all. What area of Germany do you think it comes from? Berlin or Dresden - to the East of Germany - would be our "hunch" or "educated guess". Why is it only a "hunch"? The task of assessing the instrument's origins is made more difficult because the varnish is later. The varnish looks very old though? Yes - the varnish work that has been performed on this instrument is absolutely superb. The colours, texture, shadings and wear to the application do seem to suggest that the varnisher was trying to copy what remained of the original varnish. This then could well be what we call a "facsimile" of the original. Whatever one wishes to call it - it is jolly good work. Have you done much to the instrument? A moderate amount of work has been necessary to bring the instrument up to modern day concert standards. In brief we've fitted a new bass bar to the inside and a new neck on the outside. What about the set up? We're confident that you'll fall in love the slim feel of the neck and the smoothness of the stunning "6-hole" cogs that we've acquired from Germany. Is there anything else about the set up? Yes plenty. The instrument is fitted with a "super-quality" fingerboard - once again acquired from Germany and the "superieur" quality Chevalets Despiau bridge - acquired from France - is fitted with smooth running aluminium adjusters. What about the sound? Sounds that please are just brilliant to make and this bass has pretty well everything that either an orchestral or jazz player would want. The whole instrument vibrates well when it is played and a simply colossal sound just seems to flow out. The sound is full and rounded yet with clarity and projection. This instrument is just a pleasure to play. Final Summary We think that this is a great "player's instrument". The model fits comfortably into one's body, the string length - at 104.5cm - is just about perfect, the sound quality is strong and clear and the looks and structural condition are really A1. The price too - is less than the cost of a new instrument from a half decent modern maker. What are you waiting for? Stats: LOB (length of back) - 112.4cm (44.25in) Price: £16 000-00 - Convert price with XE.com Personal Currency Assistant |
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| Front View | Back View |
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| Quarter View | Scroll View |
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