The Ex-Mike Wright Double Bass by John Wm. Mortimer, Cardiff anno 1909

Named “The Briton” by the maker on the original label - English instruments that are on the small side and come with a string length of around 103cm are exceedingly difficult to come across. This incredibly pure and splendid example of Mortimer’s work is there for sure to be of great interest to both Japanese and Korean players and obviously to any player of smaller stature. Of particular note are the back & ribs of the instrument which have been constructed from spectacularly grained ash.

The instrument was previously owned by the now retired principal of the BBC Welsh Symphony Orchestra for over 35 years.

Stats:

LOB (length of back) - 105.0cm (41.35in)
Width across upper bouts - 49.7cm (19.58in)
Width across middle bouts - 34.4cm (13.50in)
Width across lower bouts - 66.5cm (26.20in)
Depth of lower ribs inc both plates - 22.8cm (8.90in)
Body stop - 56.8cm (22.38in)
String length - 101.4cm (40.13in)

Reference number #2870