B & J "the Mele" Egyptian motif Model Soprano Ukulele, most likely made by Regal, c. 1930, made in Chicago, dark mahogany finish, birch body and neck, original canvas bag case.
Decorated ukuleles were quite the rage in the late 1920's and early 1930's; for the manufacturer or dealer it was an easy way to diversify the product line without much extra effort. Essentially the same instrument could be offered in multiple finishes with different design motifs, which ranged from the whimsical to the truly eccentric. This is a fairly typical Regal-made soprano uke with rather interesting cosmetics.
This particular decorative pattern is a product of the 1920's fascination for ancient Egyptian art and culture, which followed the much publicized opening of Pharoah Tutankhamon's tomb in 1922. Decals on the uke represent processional fronds, and the eagle-winged scarab beetle holding Ra's sun disc. In addition, the top, back, and soundhole are bound with black and white celluloid.
While the art of the Egyptians and the music of the Hawaiians may seem grossly unrelated, this ukulele is a whimsical reminder that all things are one in the world of ukedom!
Overall length is 20 3/4 in. (52.7 cm.), 6 in. (15.2 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 2 1/4 in. (5.7 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.).
Good playing condition; several repaired cracks on top and back and a chip is missing off the treble end of the bridge top. Decals in good shape with only minor chipping. A nice decorator uke in playable -- or displayable! -- condition. Very Good + Condition.
