A great double bass by the French maker Paul Claudot (Mirecourt 1805-Paris 1888 ).
This is a classic early example. Beautifully carved scroll, good choice of wood, typical older French tuners, the classic Claudot outline. Not too deep in the rib making it easy to get around. Personally, I just love Claudot basses – they are not typically what we think of as French at all and this example has a rich, deep, and velvet sound that I really enjoy. Fun to play - this would suit a fine orchestral player who may not in a position to afford a big Italian name. Completely gone over by us sand in great condition.