John Frederick (I) Lott

History

John Frederick (I) Lott (1776-1853) was born in 1776, likely in Germany, and died on April 13, 1853, in London, UK, being buried in the Churchyard of St. Giles-in-the-Fields. He was originally a chair-maker or engaged in the cabinet business early in life. He came to London in his younger years, where he became friends with B. S. Fendt. In March 1798, he began an apprenticeship with Thomas Dodd, with whom he worked until 1834. Subsequently, in 1835, he established his own business in King Street, Seven Dials. By 1851, he was living at 24 St Anne's Court, Soho.

Craft

• Instrument Focus: John Frederick (I) Lott was especially well-known for his double basses, which are regarded as splendid instruments capable of comparison with Italian work. He also made excellent violoncellos and basses for Thomas Dodd. Violins and violas made by him are uncommon, as many were produced for Dodd and are not easily identifiable.
• Workmanship: His work was of a most finished description, characterized by great skill and precision. The interior of his double basses was as beautifully finished as the exterior, and the scrolls were finely cut. He was noted for spending double the time on his instruments compared to other English makers.
• Models and Varnish: He generally produced fine copies of Stradivari or Amati instruments. However, his varnish was often considered less beautiful, thin, or poor in quality, not matching the excellence of his craftsmanship.
• Unique Features: The machines on many of his basses were made by himself, which was a very unusual circumstance for the time.
• Labeling: Instruments made for Dodd often carried Dodd's label. His own label read "J. F. Lott / Maker / London 18..".

Influence

• Mentorship: He was induced by his friendship with B. S. Fendt to turn his attention to making violins. He subsequently entered an apprenticeship with Thomas Dodd in March 1798, where he developed great skill.

Legacy

• Family Continuity: His two sons, George Frederick Lott and John Frederick Lott, both followed in his footsteps and became makers.
• Reputation: He was certainly regarded as "the king of the English Double-Bass makers" due to the exceptional quality of his instruments.

Further Information

• Workshop Locations: In 1835, he established his own business in King Street, Seven Dials. By 1851, he was living at 24 St Anne's Court, Soho.
• Label Details: His personal label included "J. F. Lott / Maker / London 18..".

Summary

John Frederick (I) Lott (1776-1853) was a highly skilled English luthier, originally a chair-maker, who became renowned for his exceptional double basses, often compared to Italian instruments. After an apprenticeship with Thomas Dodd, he established his own business in London, producing instruments noted for their precise and finished workmanship, despite his varnish often being considered of lesser quality. His sons, George Frederick and John Frederick, also became makers.