Onbekend - - Mandolin - Unknown (No reserve price)

Offered a special and rare sight: an antique 10-string Neapolitan bowlback (shell-body) mandolin, dating from the early 20th century (c. 1920–1930).

While most mandolins from this period have 8 strings, this is a rarer 10-string model (5 double courses), which at the time was used for a wider bass range.

The instrument is richly decorated with a beautifully inlaid pickguard featuring butterfly/flower motifs in mother-of-pearl. The edges around the top plate and the sound hole also feature refined wood-and-mother-of-pearl binding. At the bottom there is a wooden protective cap/armrest. The back (the shell) is expertly built from countless wooden ribs and appears visually beautiful and neat. The instrument is supplied with the shown original antique case with green felt lining.

Condition of the instrument:
The instrument presents an authentic cosmetic state with clear signs of use and aging appropriate to its age (see photos for an accurate impression). There is currently no visible label on the inside.

Top plate & edge: Clearly some sections of the mother-of-pearl inlay along the edge of the top plate are missing (see detail photos).
Back (shell): The back is largely intact but shows one loose seam (at least) between the wooden ribs.
Strings: Currently only a few old strings are on it.
Neck: It looks straight, and playability thus seems good.

Note: The mandolin is expressly offered as a restoration object or decorative piece in the condition in which it is ("as is"). Ideal for a handy enthusiast or instrument maker.