Vega Lansing Special Vintage Bowlback Mandolin c.1903-1910

The Vega company incorporated in 1903 and made a number of bowlback mandolins that were artist endorsed specials named after Mandolin virtuosi such as Giuseppe Pettine, Valentin Abt and Boston’s own George L. Lansing. Lansing (1860-1923) was a founder in 1887 of the Boston Ideal Banjo, Mandolin and Guitar Club – a quintet that was America’s first professional classical fretted instrument ensemble at the beginning of the Mandolin Orchestra craze. (Listen to Butch Baldassari’s Nashville Mandolin Orchestra doing the Boston Ideal March).
Lansing authored many instructional books on Mandolin and banjo, and evolved into a prolific conductor and composer.

This particular Lansing Special is in wonderful playing condition – a rare find for a mandolin from this era. It has had a couple of headstock repairs and splits in the bowl but is otherwise in phenomenal shape. The neck, bridge, frets, top, and tuners are all in good form. The inlays are gorgeous with little fatigue throughout. The tone is sweet and breathy with remarkable volume and articulation. Price includes the original fitted hardshell case that is also in wonderful condition.