Poster: The Carved Heads of Claude Bas

The Carved Heads of Claude Bas

This poster showcases three remarkable carved heads created by Claude Bas (1811–1875), a renowned hurdy-gurdy maker from the Bresse region of France. Born in Montcet and based in Chaveyriat (Ain), where he worked as a wheelwright, Claude Bas is now recognized for the exceptional quality and originality of his instruments.

The sculptures featured on this poster bear witness to his remarkable talent as a woodcarver. Bearded figures, expressive faces, and richly detailed ornamentation illustrate the great care devoted to each of his creations. According to local tradition, as recorded by the scholar Paul Carru, Claude Bas possessed outstanding carving skills and often worked using only a knife.

Photographed by Pascal Cranga, these three carved heads offer a striking glimpse into the aesthetic of nineteenth-century Bresse hurdy-gurdies. They reveal the craftsmanship of an artisan whose instruments are now regarded as precious examples of France’s musical and folk heritage.

Poster Specifications

Photography and Layout: Pascal Cranga

A hurdy-gurdy maker and tonewood dealer, now retired, Pascal Cranga devoted much of his life to the study, restoration, and construction of this iconic traditional instrument. Passionate about historical hurdy-gurdies, he assembled over the years an extensive collection of instruments together with a rich photographic archive highlighting their diversity, aesthetic beauty, and historical significance.

Format: 400 × 600 mm

Printing Process: Colorado – High Quality

Print: Matte finish on 200 g/m² photographic paper

This poster faithfully reproduces original photographs by Pascal Cranga, revealing the intricate details, materials, and elegance of a historic hurdy-gurdy.