My work is done.
Well, for now.
Out of the blue on Faceblech, a KH Mandola surfaced — this was the last piece in a very large collection puzzle that I needed. Some very honest and open negotiations later, the dola is safely ensconced with its Michigan bretheren, forming what might be the only quartet out there.
In all the research I’d done, I’d only managed to locate 3 of them (and nobody would return any inquiries) until this one surfaced.
From a catalog: genuine 2 piece solid Arco-Arched spruce top. Mahogany neck, sides and arched back. Rosewood fingerboard. Bound ivoroid top for protection.
This Mandola has been through it though. The back has certainly been off to repair some cracks. The regluing looks like complete amateur hour however as there are glue traces and globs all around it. The pickguard is long-gone (not surprising as they often disintegrate). The tailpiece cover shows some corrosion, and the finish along the sides had bubbled up and then hardened into a sandpaper kind of feel. The neck has a bow/bulge to it and the only correction is super high action.
Currently slated for some measure of restoration.
FON: 1138 B
No case.
Before restoration.
