Gibson Style A-3 Model Carved Top Mandolin (1920), made in Kalamazoo, Michigan, "antique ivory" top, cherry stained back and sides finish, birch body, spruce top, mahogany neck, black tolex original hard shell case.
A spectacular example of one of Gibson's most attractive mandolins, the white-topped A-3. Gibson made many experiments in the top color on their mandolin line in the 1910's and 20's, offering black, brown, orange, and red sunburst on different models at various times. The "Antique Ivory" finish was unique to the A-3, and only available between 1918 and 1922.
The top is double bound with a wide ivoroid soundhole rin with three-ply wood on either side; the pickguard is grained ivoroid as is the bracket anchor. Back and fingerboard are single bound; peghead has a particularly "nouveau" THE GIBSON script logo and inlaid vine pattern. Original one-piece compensated bridge and engraved tailpiece with plating in particularly nice shape.
Overall length is 25 3/4 in. (65.4 cm.), 10 1/4 in. (26 cm.) wide, and 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 14 in. (356 mm.).
Completely original and intact, this mandolin is in the sort of condition one wishes all old instruments could still be found in!
Very minor playing wear, most noticeable on the top rim where the player's arm rests. Action is slightly higher than our usual standard. As this mandolin has never been altered, we have left the bridge as is and can easily lower to suit any playing style. Instrument has 100% original hardware and finish, with original hard case; simply as nice an example of a rare Gibson as one can reasonably hope to find 85 years on. Excellent + Condition.
