Reviews

Instrument: One of approximately 15 instruments that Briggs made. Viol shaped with flat back and upper angle break. Nicely flamed two-piece back with well-matched rib wood. Table of fine to medium-fine grained spruce. Original machine heads. Varnish of a light golden brown over a yellow ground. Signature: The instrument is signed in black ink on the upper back (below the angle break) bass side - Made by James William Briggs, Wakefield 1888. No4 Brand: The instrument is branded on the bottom ribs - either side of centre join below the top-plate saddle (bottom nut);J.W. BRIGGS (bass side rib)WAKEFIELD (treble side...

Having been safely housed in a South West of England Grammar school for innumerable years the overall fabulous condition of this most intriguing of instruments initially suggested to us that it was only about 70-80 years old. Our second estimate was to be in total contradiction. The lack of purfilling, the thin one-piece semi-swell back, the cello like shoulders and unusual crescent shaped centre bouts strongly suggested that this was some kind of transitional instrument that dated right back to the second half of the 16th century. We were confused to say the least. After considerable discussion our second estimate...

What a beautiful looking instrument this is. Yes it is. The proportions and model are simply divine, the quality of wood used throughout is superb and the neatness of making is outstanding. As for the deep red-brown hues of the beautifully preserved varnish - well these are simply breathtaking. So an instrument of divine quality. Are there any maker's labels, inscriptions or brands inside the instrument? Unfortunately no. There is however an old repair label positioned on the bass side of the central back brace which reads 'Repaired by E. Withers and Co, 31 Coventry Street, London'. Although it doesn't...

Classic Kennedy - how majestic and strong. Yes indeed. When you look at the distinctive Gasparo Da Salo inspired model with its broad table proportions, flat back and full-depth ribs you know straight away that Thomas Kennedy (b-1784, d-1870) was a bass maker who really knew what he was doing. What else is easily recognisable? There are many very recognisable or “classic” characteristics to Kennedy's work - but perhaps one of the most unique and differentiating is his oval-shaped scroll. He has fabricated this by widening the outside volutes in an over-emphasised but harmonious manner towards the peg-box mortice before...