1963 Pasquale Pecoraro Roman Embergher-Style Bowlback Mandolin

OK, this is a little outside of my wheelhouse, but I will describe this exceptional instrument to the best of my ability. This is a vintage Roman mandolin in the Embergher style by master luthier Pecoraro Pasquale. We just acquired it from a high-end vintage estate near Chicago.

It is a bowl-back classical mandolin with 29 nickel frets on an ebony fingerboard with flower fret markers, a spruce top, maple back with 34 fluted ribs and two large ribs on each side, an ebony/ bone bridge, silver tailpiece, scroll pick guard, rosette, inlays and binding. Overall it measures about 24.5" in length and 8.25" wide.

It is marked inside with a label and hand signed by Pecoraro Pasquale on the left inside of the bowl. It is my understanding that Pasquale studied under Embergher and continued in his tradition when Embergher passed. It is dated 1963 inside at the neck heel and appears to be in excellent original condition. It has all the Embergher characteristics– the ribbed back, the distinctive headstock and inlays.

This beautiful mandolin is crafted in a classical manner, but it’s full, bright sound is perfect for any musical style. It is in very, very good original condition. We are offering it exactly as-found– we have done nothing to it. The strings appear to be older and should probably be replaced. Obviously you may want to have it set up for your playing style/ preferences. There are a few very light scattered marks, scuffs, and light wear appropriate for its age. The edge binding looks like it may have shrunk very slightly over the years where it meets the neck. Otherwise, I think it is an exceptional example. There is very little fret wear, and it appears to have been very well cared for.

I don’t think that Pecoraro Pasquale mandolins come to market very frequently and there are very few mandolin luthiers who are held in the same esteem. We've posted a number of pictures which accurately depict the condition and I'm happy to answer any questions to the best of my ability.