Maurice Bruyas, France, c.1950

Maurice Bruyas was born in 1907 in the French region of Chaumont-sur-Loire. He was a violinist and secured work with the Radio and Opera Orchestras in Algiers. He also became a wood carver in some capacity and learned violin making from his uncle, an amateur luthier. He was obviously gifted as, by 1946, he had settled in St. Etienne where he was appointed luthier to the Conservatoire and, in 1949, won a diploma in a violin making competition at The Hague.

This bass is stamped "M.Bruyas A St.Etienne" on the bass bar. It has a rich, clear, projecting sound. More information on www.doublebasses.co.uk

Certification: Branded by the maker on the bass bar, "M.Bruyas A St.Etienne".