John Frederick Lott Sr. & Thomas Dodd- London circa 1820

A spectacular bass and example of the work of John Frederick Lott circa 1820.  This bass bass was made while he was employed by Thomas Dodd as the varnish was typical of Dodd’s mastery. A Dodd bass made by Lott is as good as it gets for English makers! This bass is amazing visually in addition to its staggering playing capabilities.   This is probably the best bass we’ve ever had come through the shop, refinement at its highest level.  This bass needs to end up somewhere very special.

The back is made from highly flamed Sycamore, having an almost 3D effect from Dodd’s amazing varnish. Ribs and exterior linings were from the same wood with less flame.  The original scroll we think is pear wood.

The bass has just recently been overhauled in our shop with a neck graft to update the geometry to perfect modern playing standards.  The work also included new fingerboard, bridge, endpin and a Bass Cellar completely adjustable chromatic C extension.