Seven string bass viol based on an instrument by Claude Pierray dated 1709, now in the Royal College of Music Museum, London.
Not much is known about Pierray’s life. He was based in Paris, where he worked between 1700 and 1729, and some sources mention an apprenticeship contract at Guillaume Barbey’s workshop.
This is a rather small viola da gamba with a body length of 64 cm and a string length of 67,5 cm which makes it particularly comfortable to play. Despite the small body and short string length, the instrument preserves a full and rich sound.
The front is made of two pieces spruce. Back, ribs and neck are made of flamed maple. The instrument’s decorations are the carved head and pegbox and the double purfling on the table.
Photos by Matteo Pasin