German Orchestral Bass

19th Century French Model ~ c.1860


7/8 German Orchestral Bass w/Fingered Ext. 
Upper Bout: 20 3/4" Belly Length: 44"
Center Bout: 15 5/8" String Length:  42"
Bottom Bout: 28" Varnish: Golden Brown
Rib Depth:  8" (6 3/8" at Neck)
Top: Spruce
Back: Flamed Maple
Ribs: Flamed Maple
Neck / Scroll: Flamed Maple with Flamed Maple Neck Graft

 Features: This is a beautifully made 19th century Orchestral Bass. While some dealers think it may be of French origin, I happen to believe it is one of the finer examples that were made in Germany the 2nd half of the 19th century. The Purfling running around the Top and Back is often seen on French Cello model Basses but we have seen many German Basses of various models and sizes with this feature as well. The Scroll is also slightly nicer than the average trade instruments made in Germany as is the grade of wood used. The slim outer Rib linings and the Spirit varnish also point to German work.

If this Bass with its exact same sound were actually of Italian or English origin, you could expect the selling price to be 3x the current asking price. This is truly a great Bass regardless of its origin. The obvious usage and patina also show it was a players Bass and not something left covered up in the corner for a long period of time. Besides being a good Orchestral Bass, it is also a great sounding Jazz Bass as well. This Bass has been Sold.


Comfortable 7/8ths dimensions on this French model Bass makes this a pleasure to play.

Typical upper grade German work shown on this 19th century French model Bass.

The French Bakelite Gears are not original to the Bass and are from a later period.


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