I just got done working on an old Washburn bowl-back mandolin. This instrument was great concerning all aspects. Originating from right around the 1900's, Washburn did an outstanding job when it came to this instrument. When I was able to finally get through the layer of "history" that covered the top and back, the finished gleamed. The beautiful rosewood slated back was incredible. It had intricate mother of pearl inlays on the fretboard and pickguard. Awesome! I'm not sure what the instrument looked like originally but I suspect that this mandolin had truly beautified with age, including its sound.

The sound was full and robust. It pushed forward a natural growl from the low end, not typically felt with a mandolin, while maintaining a crisp sound. My ears loved every vibration. After playing for a little while I wished I was taking some mandolin lessons for myself.

This instrument was a pleasure to work on. There was a hairline crack between the bridge and the end block on the top, which was most likely a humidity crack. With nothing else loose or out of place it was an easy enough mend with a great end result. Some other set-up work and the mandolin was ready to be played.

I wish the customer I fixed it for many happy strums. There are some pictures below. Enjoy.