Soprano Ukulele, most likely made by Harmony, c. 1932, made in Chicago, sunburst lacquer with stenciling finish, birch body, poplar neck.
Overall length is 20 1/2 in. (52.1 cm.), 6 1/2 in. (16.5 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm.) in depth at side, taken at the end block. Scale length is 13 in. (330 mm.). Width of nut is 1 7/16 in. (36 mm.).
This is a nice decorative example of one of the the many Depression-era stenciled ukes, fairly crudely made but quite attractive. The stenciling is nicely done with a faux pearl effect on the sound hole and a metallic glint to the floral pattern down on the body. There are some small dings and chips to the finish but no cracks or repairs, and it remains in all original condition.
The uke has a typical sweet but thin sound and plays well enough in the first position for period strumming, but is not a virtuoso instrument by any standard! Definitely not a sonic challenger to a vintage Martin; nonetheless, a nice playable period piece. Excellent - Condition.
