Description
This ca. 1850 French 3/4 carved back bass has been attributed to Charotte. Probably made originally as a 3 string instrument, it later received a transplanted German 4 string neck and had a Stenholm C extension installed. It has been used as an orchestral instrument in a variety of settings and geographic locations for nearly 50 years. The spruce top features very straight grain, with the narrow grain joined at the center. The maple sides feature moderately flame figure and less so on the carved back plate, which has some interesting light ribbon figure. There have not been many repairs over the years and the instrument has a very solid and stable feel. The ebony tailpiece is light and beautifully made. The solid graphite endpin is from New Harmony. The Stenholm C extension has had a recent overhaul by Jason Brown. Dimensions are: Top length 44 3/8″ (112.7 cm), Upper bout width 20 3/4″ (52.7 cm), Middle bout width 14 1/4″ (28.6 cm), Lower bout width 26 3/8″ (67.0 cm), Length of back including button 46 5/8″ (118.4 cm), Rib depth at tail 7 3/4″ (19.7 cm), Rib depth at upper bout corner 7 1/8″ (18.1 cm), Rib depth at neck joint 6 7/8″ (17.5 cm), String length 42 3/4″ (108.6 cm). The bass is currently strung with Pirastro Flexocore 92 strings, giving the instrument a commanding presence and a projective voice in an orchestral setting. With cover.
