Does anyone recognize this bass?
 

Hi all,

About a year ago I bought this bass - it's a 1781 (or 91 - label is unclear) William Forster II. I've been unsuccessful in getting the shop I bought it from to give me any info about who owned it before me, so I thought I'd post it here to see if anyone recognizes it by any chance. Please let me know. Happy to post more pics if it would help. I'd be grateful for any info anyone might have.

dates
 

I would say IF the 1700s, then 1791 would be early for him as Forster Snr. (his Dad, Wlm. III) died in 1808 with whom he trained. Actually, reading more here, the father has a similar label so this could be a late bass made in the fathers shop as most of Forster IIIs labels are after 1800. Because of the model, I attribute it to the sons work regardless of the date or shop made in.

It had a really old (terrible) extension when I bought it, so I think it's a reasonable assumption that it's been in the US for a while. It also must have been played by someone fairly large in order to successfully navigate the shoulders. Those are the only clues I have as to its history.

Very interesting looking instrument. Why not post a picture on one of the Double Bass groups on Facebook? Someone there is sure to know something about it!