Bass viola da gamba

This bass viol is based on an original 17th century model by French maker Michel Colichon. From the knowledge available, he probably was the luthier who added a seventh string. In doing so, what we refer today as a French viol would become an important instrument, deeply changing the music of that time. The head of this viol has been carved with a detailed head of a woman. The intricate gold painting on the front is the only subtle decoration which enhances the visual aspect of the instrument.