Sam Rizzetta Custom Lap Dulcimer (used)

Exquisite, one-of-a-kind fretted dulcimer built by Sam Rizzetta in 1995, offered on consignment sale. This was Sam's primary recording and performing dulcimer from 1995-2009, and it won awards at many exhibitions. It is featured on the cover of his album "."

4-string dulcimer with large, asymmetric body and tone chamber. Highly figured, quarter sawn, honey-colored lacewood soundboard, back and sides. Trailing heart soundholes. Ebony fretboard and peghead face have one-of-a-kind vine inlays of mother-of-pearl, abalone and turquoise. The western red cedar fret staff is hollowed. Top and back have purpleheart binding with abalone border around the top. Back has abalone and ebony inlay stripe. The black walnut peg head with maple border around its ebony face is fitted with four gold Schaller tuners with enclosed, sealed gears. Lacquer finish.

Extra wide and low frets. String scale length is 28 inches. Fretting is for a mean-tone temperament. 6-1/2 fret and 13-1/2 fret are original. Ivoroid nut and bone saddle are grooved to accommodate either four equidistant strings or paired melody strings. It was strung for D'D'AD tuning. A Baggs pickup and strap button jack are installed. 

Condition is Very Good to Excellent. Very minor wear; some lacquer checking.

Included is a custom hardshell case made of cedar and fiberglass, and a June 2020 written appraisal by Sam Rizetta placing the current value at $10,500.

Fully insured UPS Ground shipping is free within the continental US (if the buyer opts for a preferential return, our outgoing shipping cost will be deducted from refund). Please inquire for expedited or international shipping options (include full address with these inquiries).

This item can only be shipped to the credit card holder's verified billing address or confirmed Paypal address. Direct wire transfer payment also available.