Edward Withers I

Edward Withers was a cellist and the son of a confectioner. He purchased the shop of R. & W. Davis in Coventry Street in 1846 and devoted himself entirely to developing the business from 1848. In his first year, he bought and sold the Stradivari 1698 `Cholmondley' cello. He was assisted in the workshop by C. Maucotel and C. Theress, both of whom had previously worked for Davis. C. Boullangier took ...Read More Maucotel's place in 1849. Both John Lott (I) and John Lott (II) also worked for Davis and continued as outworkers for Withers. He claimed to have been taught violin making by the younger Lott, although it remains unclear how much practical experience he possessed. He was succeeded by his sons Edward (II) and George Thomas Henry. He produced very fine Cremonese models, including a remarkable quartet made in the Guarneri del Gesù pattern, characterized by exquisite workmanship and great distinction, featuring finely textured red-brown varnish. Read Less

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