double bass

“The English Lady”
The Musical Instrument Fund acquired this exceptional English double bass in 2016 thanks to a donation from a private foundation. That foundation made it possible to purchase several instruments, all of which are now part of the “Willem G. Vogelaar Collection.” It has proven impossible to determine the specific maker of the double bass. However, according to three experts consulted, there are sufficient indications to suggest that it is an English double bass built around 1800 in (or near) London. The f-holes are, to put it mildly, eccentric. Hopefully, we will one day find another instrument with the same eccentric f-holes for which the maker is known (for example, through an original label). Until then, this bass will remain known as an anonymous English bass. Double bassist Uxía Martinez Botana has known this bass for years and has played it extensively. She will be borrowing the bass from the Musical Instrument Fund for the coming years. She herself calls the instrument “The English Lady.”
Double bass maker Harry Jansen restored this bass in collaboration with Melle Wondergem. Jansen writes the following about it: “This is a unique specimen. Over the course of its history, the instrument has been adapted to the demands of the times. It originally had a cello shape. The back and top were extended, and the top two ribs were replaced to create a more playable instrument. These modifications were likely made not long after the instrument was built, possibly by the maker himself. All other parts are original, as evidenced by the partially craquelured brown varnish found throughout the instrument. Fairly blunt violin corners, a wide chest, and very pronounced S-shaped sound holes adorn the instrument. Flat back with a bend, made from slightly flamed maple. The bend is reinforced with dovetail joints. Spruce top with medium-width grain and a flat arch. The narrow scroll has an extra twist; the pegbox is fitted with typical English pegs.’