This is a gorgeous Washburn Bowl Back Mandolin from somewhere between the 1880s and 1920s. The sticker inside says "No. 1840" (serial number) but unlike later years the sticker had no "Model No." space. The Washburn logo is branded into the inside top of the bowl.
The craftsmanship on this mandolin is second to none! 26 beautiful Brazilian Rosewood ribs comprise the back with maple purfling between each rib. There is ivory binding around the ribs, top, fretboard and soundhole, and I believe the tuning keys are ivory as well. The inlays on the top and sides were meticulously done by hand. Even the tortoise shell pickguard is also inlaid into the top and not resting on the top. There are 8 exquisite mother-of-pearl inlays on the fretboard, and one on the headstock. The tuning machines are covered by a metal plate with beautiful work depicting the Washburn name, 2 birds, and some scrolling flower patterns.
This 120+ year old mandolin also comes with its ORIGINAL TOOLED LEATHER CASE! It has been a long time since I've seen one of these cases included with a mandolin. It is not in the greatest shape after all this time, but it does work- just barely. Two of the three leather straps on the buckles need replaced, but if you are a purist I would leave them be.
Repairs- When I got this, the lower half of the soundboard had been replaced, and I do not know the reason why. But it is a very nice replacement job. One of the back ribs is missing a 1/4 inch piece of purfling. A section of the binding needs repaired. I attempted to repair the neck, which was pulling away from the body, and which appeared to have received a serious blow at the body connection. My repair lasted about one year, during which I was able to play it- the action was great and it sounds like angels! Sustain for days! But unfortunately my repair did not last - I am a novice luthier and this turned out to be beyond my pay grade.
Please examine the photos carefully- this is non-returnable and sold "as described".
It is very well packed for shipping- I used a larger box with added bubble wrap for extra protection, so the shipping cost will be a little higher than normal.
