English Double Bass by William Howarth, Manchester anno 1894

This well-proportioned viol shaped instrument bears Howarth’s original printed label which is positioned just below the back centre-brace. In addition, Howarth has signed and dated the upper inside back in black ink. Although the instrument does not have the original scroll, at some point during its life it acquired a wonderful example of the work of J. F Lott II. This, one would have to say adds significantly to the instrument’s beauty and desirability. In terms of provenance the instrument is featured over no less than five full colour pages in the sumptuously researched and produced publication entitled The English Double Bass.

This instrument possessed a deep, dark and sonorous sound of considerable volume.

Stats:

LOB (length of back) - 113.6cm (44.65in)
Width at the upper bout - 55.8cm (22in)
Width at the middle bout - 39.9cm (15.75in)
Width at the lower bout - 70.2cm (27.65in) 
String length - 107cm (42.1in)

Reference number #1900