S. S. Stewart Banjeaurine (1894), made in Philadelphia, PA, natural varnish finish, spunover rim, cherrywood neck with ebony fingerboard.
Banjeurines were one of S.S. Stewart's Specialties, and this is a very fine example of his factory's better grade work. With a short neck but large head, these instruments were meant to be tuned to a higher pitch to play melody parts in the banjo ensembles of the 1890's, but still have a full, rich tone. While not as often played today, banjeurines are considerably rarer than their full-scale banjo brothers, especially in the higher grades.
This lovely little Stewart features a cherry neck with an ebony fingerboard with mixed diamond and shaped inlay, and a moon-and-star inlaid headstock. The neck/heel brace is the original heavier style without the turnbuckle. Original tuners and tailpiece; proper original matching hooks and nuts. A wonderful find for the banjo collector and player with a taste for the slightly unusual!
Overall length is 28 1/4 in. (71.8 cm.), 12 3/4 in. (32.4 cm.) diameter head, and 2 3/8 in. (6 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 21 1/2 in. (546 mm.).
Lovely original condition; some general wear, but no apparent damage or repairs. Set up with a very old ("Soo Brand, by Rodgers Tanneries") calf head and steel strings; positively an enchanting instrument to play and hear. Excellent Condition.
