1800 Thomas Dodd cello

By 1800 London had become the centre of the musical world. The Hanoverian monarchs were arts patrons and invested in music and bigger halls. Instruments flooded to the UK from France and Italy. Workshops appeared at this time many of whom copied the great Cremonese instruments. The two biggest luthiers in the early 19th century were run by the Dodd and Betts families. Many of the celebrated English makers passed through these workshops before setting up their own businesses, including the Panormos, both Fendts, both Lotts and many more. It is likely that this cello was made by Bernhard Simon Fendt I in Dodd's Covent Garden atelier.

The Dodd cello is a stunning example of a cello of this period, made in 1800, in great condition with a rich, dark lower register and a bright A string.

The Dodd cello is on loan in Melbourne.