American Conservatory Bowl Back Mandolin 1890s - Brazilian Rosewood - Ships FREE

Description

Approaching 130 years of age in excellent structural and playing condition.   These mandolins are incredible to find in any condition.   The chance to own one without any serious damage is a once in a lifetime opportunity.   American conservatory mandolins where some of the best instruments available at the turn of the 20th century.  After a century and on third this mandolins outstanding structural longevity exemplifies the goal of their standards. All glue joints are solid, no loose slats on the back, the neck set is good.  All parts and components are original. The tuners have all the original buttons, turn nicely and hold pitch well.
42 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 stunning Brazilian rosewood head stock overlay and African Ebony fretboard all bound in traditional white celluloid binding.  The binding at the end of the fretboard has been replaced but matches nicely. The soundboard is very tight grained, old growth Adirondack red spruce.  It is complimented by a genuine tortoise shell pick guard and inlay.  Beautiful herring bone purfling and a marquetry strip surround the top with a matching sound hole rosette all bound in white celluloid.  The ebony fretboard bears gorgeous mother of pearl inlays.
This mandolin plays very nicely with low action.  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 and a one back slat has been
re-glued
but no negligent damage or soundboard cracks!   Just
the sort of age patina one would expect from a century plus of joy filled playing.
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
over
a century 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.
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!