Flat back bent top no label

[Hany Hayek]

I found this one on our local market. I have too many mandolins but the asking price is around 65 USD. I am very tempted to get myself a Christmas present. I already have a flat back Emilio Egildo 1921 mandolin.
This one has no label inside, the neck looks like it has a triangular shape just like the Egildo, the keys look Italian, but the pick guard doesn't. I just have to go and check that the neck is straight.
I am really looking for opinions. Thank you

[Bill Cameron]

$65? Do it! As long as it’s decently playable, even if you don’t like it you can put new (light) strings on it and do other minor tweaks and sell it for more than that.

[brunello97]

Nice to see you back, Hany....

I think you're right to guess a Sicilian origin.

It looks like the back has a bit of a curved profile to it, which is always nice.
The bridge does look pretty odd though. Unnaturally big.
I hope it isn't a replacement due to the consequence of the top sinking.

I have seen a range of curious Rorschach-test shaped inlayed wood scratchplates on Sicilian mandolins.
This one reminds me of the island of Cuba.

Let us know if you decide to get it.

Mick

[Hany Hayek]

Hi Mick,

I am always around watching posts, mostly in the classic area. This is my favorite place.
The bridge is just tilted. That's a good thing because it means that there is no pressure on the neck.
I have to go and check it out, It does look Italian to me.

@Bill,
I have to tell you that even if USD 65 may look like not much in US or Europe, here in Egypt, It's a lot of money. I might even try to bargain a little

[Hany Hayek]

I looked at it again and the pick guard actually matched the island of Sicily

[brunello97]

I looked at it again and the pick guard actually matched the island of Sicily

As Ed McMahon used to say: "You are correct, sir!"

I'm reading the Detective Montalbano novels from Andrea Camillieri now after enjoying the TV series.
Set in Sicily as you know.

65$ US looks to be about 1000+ Egyptian pounds or around ten of these.

Let us know what you find out, Hany.

Mick

[Hany Hayek]

I went to see it. The neck was straight, but there was a shim under the rosewood bridge. The bridge was not in place. I didn't try to move it as there was a small, almost invisible crack going from bridge to tail.
The back was in mahogany and had a couple of small cracks. The machines seemed working but need lots of cleaning. I didn't take it. It needs some work to return to good condition and I don't want to do that anymore.