Originally Posted by
Richard500
We used to say the same about Italian cars, and for similar reasons. Anyhow, the gunk looks a bit like RTV silicone, which was sort of a wonder material years ago. Given the totally missing brace, with no glue residue left behind, and a brace with what looks like a trace of fabric, it might not have even been original - a thoroughly poor prior repair. Neck finish also? Glad you were able to flatten it in one piece.
Was the pick guard celluloid, or organic? Don’t know if the latter shrinks or swells over time.
Glad it’s in very good hands!