Umberto Ceccherini Bowlback Mandolin (c. 1881)

Description

While we almost never carry bowlback mandolins here at the Denver Folklore Center, this 19th century masterwork by Neapolitan luthier Umberto Ceccherini simply forced our hand - not only does it sound and play great, but it's in tremendous condition, especially considering it's now nearly 150 years old. While the year cannot be dated precisely, as all of Ceccherini's mandolins show a label on the interior that lists the year as 1881, its visual appointments and smaller bowl seem to indicate that it likely dates from near the beginning of the luthier's output. A solid spruce top is combined with Brazilian rosewood slats and a maple neck adorned with a rosewood veneer, for a pleasant and warm low end that isn't commonly heard in American archtop mandolins. An internal spruce soundboard helps emphasize higher harmonic partials and gives the instrument a lovely cutting power. We're also of course big fans of the inlay work, binding, and especially the large, batwing tortoise shell pickguard.

This instrument arrived in our store in excellent condition, especially when accounting for its age. Non-original additions or modifications are surprisingly minor, and are limited to a non-original bone saddle designed to improve intonation, and a mild French polish refinishing, primarily on the top. Other highlights, including the bone-button tuners and the brass nut, are all original and in excellent working condition. The most obvious visual wear is a small, 2mm pinhole in the top of the headstock, which does not go through to the underside. The set up is excellent, with low, playable action and good tone in all positions. It has recently seen a full fret dress, level, and crown, and the neck is remarkably straight for an instrument of its age, especially one without a truss rod. Included in the price is a non-original Gewa hard-shell case.

*Please note, per our return policy, all sales on used and consignment instruments are final.*