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How did that famous Madonna song go?
- "Like A Virgin". Why bring that
up I hear you ask? Well put simply this instrument is in a virgin-like
condition. In fact its in such a mint state that one can actually
see some of the original brush strokes in the varnish on the back
of the instrument. And what a varnish it is too. A simply gorgeous
opaque orange-red colour over a yellow ground that has been applied
in just the right number of layers to give it a wonderful translucent
quality. Although the quality of the wood used throughout this
instrument is a little on the plain side its beauty is bought
to the full by this excellent concoction of spirit varnish. In
the back of the instrument the small flecks of flame have somehow
become subtly enhanced by the varnish while the table's medium-straight-grains
have been given an air of strength. Even the ribs display an
impressive grain- speckle. This whole instrument really is a
subtle feast for the eye.
Has anything been done repair
wise? Well yes it has. We've converted this instrument from
its original three-string form by means of a stunning set of modern
"French style" cogs. Due of the shortness of the peg-box we were
unable to add a similar large-design cog so I hope that you'll all
agree that this beautifully engineered set enhances this instrument
well. Internally there is a correctly proportioned, correctly positioned
new bass bar, a sound post patch to give support, security and confidence
to this most vulnerable of areas and some new stud work to the centre
joints of both the back and front. As proof of the quality of work
and condition of this instrument The Contrabass Shoppe is pleased
to provide the buyer of this instrument with a colour print out
of the internal table. As you know photographs can speak a thousand
words. In addition to this there's a fabulous new neck and fingerboard.
What about sound?
Just beautiful is all that I can say. It just seems to flow out
of the instrument with such ease and quality of tone. You'll just
know what I mean as soon as you take hold of this instrument and
stroke the strings.
Understated - this
is a lovely, lovely instrument in quite incredible condition.
Width at the upper bout 20.8in (52.8cm)
Width at the centre bouts 15.2in (38.6cm)
Width at the lower bouts 26.5in (67.2cm)
LOB 44.4in (112.7cm) St length 41.4in (105.1cm)
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