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Lot Essay
Thomas Dodd (d. 1834) was a musical instrument maker and dealer who supplied fine musical instruments which imitated Stradivari, Guarneri, Amati and Stainer models. He was the third son of bow-maker Edward Dodd (c. 1704 -1810). Dodd is first recorded as a bow-maker in 1786 in the Blue Bell Alley, Mint Street, Southwark. Around 1798 he moved his workshop to New Street, Covent Garden, before relocating to St. Martin's Lane in the early 19th century, and finally to Berners Street.
Thomas Dodd is perhaps best known for his secret varnish (as seen on the present lot) which he applied to the instruments when they were 'in the white'. His label alludes to the pride he took in the varnish and to its notoriety, 'Dodd, maker, 92, St Martin's Lane. Perfect copies of Stradivarius, Amati, Stainer, &c. Note.-The only possessor of the recipe for preparing the original Cremona oil varnish Instruments improved and repaired.'
Thomas Dodd is perhaps best known for his secret varnish (as seen on the present lot) which he applied to the instruments when they were 'in the white'. His label alludes to the pride he took in the varnish and to its notoriety, 'Dodd, maker, 92, St Martin's Lane. Perfect copies of Stradivarius, Amati, Stainer, &c. Note.-The only possessor of the recipe for preparing the original Cremona oil varnish Instruments improved and repaired.'