Neapolitan Mandolin

by Michele Maratea, Naples, 1893

A well preserved mandolin by Maratea of Naples retaining its original label dated 1893.

Maratea was a pupil of Vinaccia and this mandolin exhibits many similarities to the Vinaccia model. The instrument has a pine belly inlaid with tortoise shell, mother of pearl and multiple wood purflings. The back is of 13 ribs of Brasilian rosewood with maple purflings. The neck is also veneered with rosewood, as is the head which retains its original tuning machines in excellent condition and is topped by a turned ivory finial.

This instrument is entirely original and in excellent playing condition, with a perfectly straight neck and retaining its original frets. The tone is strong and open with a good dynamic range and the action is very good. Supplied with a new, fitted fibreglass case.

Price $AUS 1250.00.