Maurer Model Flat Top Acoustic Guitar, made by Larson Brothers, c. 1925, made in Chicago, natural varnish finish, Brazilian rosewood back and sides, spruce top; mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard, hard shell case.
A beautiful example of the Larson Brothers' earlier style work, this "standard" size (just under 13") guitar has a monumental sound for a small box. This Maurer-branded guitar features the brothers' patented laminated X-bracing, and is absolutely designed as a steel-string instrument. This would be a "middle-of-the-line" instrument for the Larsons; professional grade but not as fancy as their more deluxe products.
The top and soundhole are bound in grained ivoroid and have colored wood marquetry. The bound ebony fingerboard has engraved shaped pearl inlay, as do the headstock and bridge. The Brazilian rosewood back is fairly straight-grained, with a dramatic figure to the sides. Tuners are the original Waverly strips with grained ivoroid buttons. The Maurer logo stamp and 1904 patent number are cleanly stamped on the backstrip. A lovely guitar that despite some old repairs is more original than many.
Overall length is 37 in. (94 cm.), 12 7/8 in. (32.7 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm.) in depth at side, taken at the end block. Scale length is 24 1/2 in. (622 mm.). Width of nut is 1 7/8 in. (48 mm.).
Excellent playing condition with a recent neckset; original bridge (never cut down!), frets, and tuners. A number of older repairs: a small area of patched wood on the back bass side, and one noticeable repair to top near soundhole. Original finish intact with small areas of French polish added over the repairs and pickwear spot. Some evidence of a prior tailpiece mounting. Overall a great-playing and sounding example of a rare and beautiful small body guitar. Generally Very Good + Condition.
