Ok, I waited to reply and didn't see anyone mention this.
French basses are often built with a gradual bend from the upper corner block to the neck button as opposed to the obvious upper back bends as seen on many German, Viennese, Italian and English basses.
This is normal for French basses. Here are the links to 3 of my French basses (past and present) with gradual bends to look at and compare. It is quite common on French basses.
http://www.kensmithbasses.com/double.../jacquet-gand/
http://www.kensmithbasses.com/doublebasses/vuillaume/
http://www.kensmithbasses.com/double...uet-pillement/
Follow what Arnold has told you. He is the most experienced restorer here on the Forum and knows his stuff. Thank's Arnold for chiming in.
