Mystery Bass-mid 1800s

[CultureSliver]

I recently purchased this bass and had it fully setup by Robertson and Sons and have been very intrigued with some of the characteristics of the instrument. First, some of the guys at the shop were really impressed with the instruments sound quality and tonal projection. They said it was a Very easy instrument to play and the sound was very focused and articulate. I then took the instrument a prof. of double bass at the local university(he plays a Claudot)and I was very intrigued by his input. He noticed alot of the things that I had like the high edging outside the purfling, the deep arch of the top and back, and the style of the neckset. He stated that the instrument had very interesting characteristics of both the French and English schools. Upon playing the bass, he was very intrigued with the sound. He didn't much care for my Obligatos(to wolfy on the bottom for classical), but he was very impressed with the clarity and projection of the bass as well as the even tone throughout the instruments range. After a few minutes of playing he stated that the instrument sounded distinctly Italian and not German, French, or English. I have played a fair share of instruments in my life, mainly German, French, and English, and I have never had an easier time achieving the sound I get with this bass. I can play the same scale on the A,D, and G and get the same tone across the board. The pizz sound is fantastic, perfect for jazz. I personally think that the instrument is of English origins and not Italian but who knows? The instrument has some interesting dimensions:
Body length 41 7/8
Upper bout 19 7/8
Middle bout 14 1/4
Lower bout 25 1/8
Rib width 7 5/8
Max arch 10 3/4
String length 40 5/8
The spruce top has narrow width grain throughout
Back and sides are matching maple with even narrow width figure
Neck is not original but has had original scroll graft
I have many more detailed pics available. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[arnoldschnitzer]

That distinct raised edge around the top and back is unique to the shop of Xavier Jacquet, Mirecourt, c. 1870-1900 or so. Can you post some close-ups, and pics of the scroll?

[jmpiwonka]

that bass looks really nice.

[Marcus Johnson]

It sure does... love to see the rest of it.

[Silversorcerer]

There's a fellow over at Ken Smith basses who can tell you more than I can, try that web site and the contact link. From my point of view it just looks like a really nice old bass. I agree that the raised edging is high enough to be unusual. The button looks like it may have been grafted? I think what is one of the most distinguishing characteristics is the shape of the top of the C bouts. It has a very subtle turn downward at the top corner block. Thanks for showing us that one. That's one of those older Gamba shapes that is just amazingly well proportioned and beautiful to see.