American Conservatory Bowl Back Mandolin - 1890s Brazil RW - Player - Ships FREE

Description

Approaching 130 years of age in excellent structural and playing condition.   American Conservatory instruments were built to  legendary standards.  After a century and on third this mandolins outstanding structural longevity exemplifies the goal of these standards. There is one crack repair near the heal on the bass side.  Two slats are slightly uneven but all glue joints are solid with no sign of change. No loose slats or open cracks, the neck set is good.  All parts and components are original.  The tuners have all the original buttons, turn nicely and hold pitch well.
These mandolins are incredible to find in any condition.   The chance to own one without any serious damage or major repair is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
9 Brazilian rosewood slats comprise the bowl of this mandolin.  The rim is also Brazilian and highly figured with long dark and light contrasting grain lines.  The neck is Honduran mahogany with an African ebony head stock overlay and Brazilian rosewood fretboard.  The soundboard is very tight grained, old growth Adirondack red spruce.  It is complimented by a genuine tortoise shell pick guard and inlay.  Herring bone purfling and a center marquetry strip surround the top bound in white celluloid.  The ebony fretboard bears hand cut mother of pearl inlays.
This mandolin plays very nicely with low action. The neck is incredibly straight and all notes ring clear with no buzzing or dead spots and there is plenty of room for future adjustments at the bridge.  There is some playing wear but no negligent damage or major dents and dings.  The most notable points are the very thin headstock veneer has some chips missing around the tuners.  However, this is isolated to the 1/20"
thick veneer on the face of the headstock, has no structural effect whatsoever and is the sort of age patina one would expect from a 130 year old overlay.
The tonal range and volume that the combination of Brazilian rosewood, Honduran mahogany and old growth spruce produce is legendary still today. An almost unobtainable request for wood choices in a new instrument, no matter how much money you spend.  This mandolin possess this tone with the advantage of a century plus playing time.   The volume is incredible and range of tone astounding.  Finely balanced with no harsh overtones.   Combined with the fine playability of this mandolin makes this a players dream as well as an extraordinarily collectable vintage instrument, certain to grow exponentially in value when the market finally realized how scarce these old gems are.
Comes with the original case.  The case is in poor condition and falling apart but is original to the mandolin.
Please view the pictures for a full aesthetic description.  I am happy to answer questions and provide additional pictures upon request.
This will ship professionally packaged and fully insured as soon as payment is received.
Thank you!