Description
Exceptional / SN: 94209
41 hand-fit Brazilian RW staves
Abalone bindings and Rosette
Engraved Inlays
This fine old Lyon & Healey bowl back mandolin is one of their Conservatory models from around 1895. The first thing you notice about it is just how nice it is. This instrument has obviously lived inside its original canvas case for many years, as the condition of the 120+ year lacquer and plated metal parts is wonderful. Everything is original except the newer Ebony bridge.
Ebony peghead veneer shows three pearl engraved inlays: the top is a Maltese cross, the middle is a flower, and the one near the nut is a simple cut diamond. Tuners are old style that employ a back plate to keep the machine gearing in line.
Ebony fingerboard is in great condition with original small mandolin frets and has elaborately engraved pearl inlays. The fingerboard is bound with white binding. Appears to be original ivory nut. The spruce top of the mandolin is in great shape. Elaborate soundhole rosette is bound inside with white binding and the rosette itself has a wide abalone inlay bordered by checkerboard wood marquetry. These same abalone with marquetry purflings are seen around the top edge of the mandolin as well. Top edge has white outer binding with black accent line below. Appears to be real tortoiseshell inset pickguard. Newer Gabon Ebony bridge. Original tailpiece is lovely with a hinged cover and screw to secure cover.
The Mahogany neck is in fabulous condition with no problems, no separations, and no need for any resetting.
Excellent set-up, playability and good tone.
The original tuners work… but some of the posts are tougher to turn than others.
Comes with original canvas case.
