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Fine double bass by Albert Volkmann double bass specialist of Schonbach Bohemia c1910, with 110cm (43.25") two-piece maple swell back showing a strong narrow curl with ribs and neck block to match; strong narrow-to-medium grain spruce table with golden amber spirit varnish over a yellow ground; Albert Volkmann Schonbach trade-mark monogram to button; bears retailer's label for Karl Hammerschmidt & Sohne Watzkenreuth and various repair labels; peg box fitted with four separate brass machine heads; fitted with Stefan Krattenmacher bridge but also has original bridge carved with Albert Volkmann monogram; 181cm (71.25") overall; with Vickers French pattern silver mounted double bass bow stamped J.E. Vickers; in lined soft carrying case and Stephenson hard flight case profusely covered with world-wide destination labels. Albert Volkmann violin/cello/bass maker was born in Schonbach in 1869 son of Alfred Volkmann also a violin/cello/bass maker. His son and family died by suicide in 1944 and Albert never recovered dying of mental illness in 1945. Schonbach, now called Luby, was originally in the Bohemian part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and commonly called 'Austrian Cremona'. Biographical note: This instrument has been owned by professional musician Roy Babbington since 1967 having been previously owned by Colin O'Brien deceased of Stockton who purchased it in Germany c1960. No history is known prior to 1960. Roy Babbington, a professional musician since 1958, is best known for his work in jazz and recording and broadcasting sessions. Since 1970 the instrument has featured with, among many others, BBC Orchestra and The BBC Big band for twenty years; recording, festivals and touring; Stan Tracey various units for twenty years international touring and recording; many visiting American players; Mose Alison UK/Europe nineteen years seasons, festivals and recording; most recently touring and filming with Michael Legrand. Roy was voted best British bassist and fifth in the world in the Melody Maker jazz poll in 1974. More biographical details on the internet including images of Roy with the instrument.

From placing my bid, payment and arranging colection the staff were top notch.

Dale R, November 2025

Super easy transaction parking and collection was a breeze. Will definitely recommend

Russell W, November 2025

You communicate well! your organisation and your staff. I was a first timer at an auction, it went very smoothly, well done! Bill Clark

William C, November 2025

We were met well and dealt with promptly and pleasantly. Thank you

Maurice M, November 2025

My introduction to this auction was bidding via the-saleroom.com, On visiting to collect my lot I was impressed by the quality of the auction rooms and friendly welcome from reception. Thank you

Leslie G, November 2025

What a beautiful showroom! I’m going to have to check your unsold stock! Great reception from your staff, especially the young man who brought the watch to me and answered a couple of queries about other stock on show, I will be back!

Bridget Helen S, November 2025

Perfect service. Thank you very much

Edith H, November 2025

Kind staff and very easy to buy with. Truly recommend.

Zach Q, October 2025

The stool was excellent just what we hoped and your service was also excellent

D R, October 2025

Faultless service thanks

paul s, October 2025

Fast friendly & very helpful service from staff. A real pleasure. Many thanks.

Steve H, October 2025

5* service , as always. Many thanks

John P, October 2025

Absolutely top class service. The lot was just as described, the auction was efficient and I love the Denby! Picked up the following day, no issues, great staff. Such a good find. Thank you.

Vanessa H, October 2025

Friendly, cheerful & efficient service.

Kevin B, October 2025

Great service as always, excellent packaging and extremely fast overseas shipping, special thank you to Lucy, Michael and the superb packing team. I highly recommend this saleroom. Kind regards from Japan.

Charles Edward G, September 2025

The staff are very friendly and so helpful. It was a very enjoyable afternoon.

linda i, September 2025

Excellent compassionate and professional service from start to finish. Thank you very much indeed!

Dawn G, September 2025

I have been fortunate to secure many Lots over the years from David Duggleby Auction House. Each Lot continues to give me great pleasure. A heartfelt thank you for always providing a first class professional service. Elizabeth H

Elizabeth H, September 2025

I find the staff at Dugglebys always helpful and very pleasant to deal with.

Barry D, September 2025

Fantastic auction house, Lee you were amazing. Thank you so much for all your help and patience. We couldn't of loaded that van without you, what a star. Thank you. Jo and Andrew.

Joanna B, September 2025