~1890 Unknown (Lyon & Healy?) Parlor Natural
Incredible 1890’s Parlor
Sometimes we come across a guitar that has so much history and character that we just can’t resist. In this case, we saw this little parlor in need of some TLC and we couldn’t consign her to the firewood pile. So, we picked her up, cleaned her up and brought her back. She’s got an ebony pyramid bridge, a comfortable set up and we’ve cleaned her up and inspected everything. There was one minor crack that we filled on the lower side bout (small and non-structural). The chunky V neck is comfortable and fun to play. The thin early frets have been kept in excellent condition and have lots of life left. Note that one side of the tuners was changed out at some time long ago. All tuners function as they should. We didn't want to mess with the look and feel of this gal so we left well enough alone. There is clearly a lot of mojo in this gal! She has some scuffs and scratches, and some aging to the finish. You can see it all in the photos attached. The spruce top and the Brazilian rosewood back and sides give a tone that is only captured with the age and experience of this kind of wood and craftsmanship. The guitar has no clear markings left, so it is virtually impossible to determine the maker and the exact date. Even in the best of conditions it is very difficult to identify the parlors from this era unless the label is still attached. No exception in this case. From experience and observation of many other parlor of this vintage however, all things point to this being of the Lyon and Healy or possibly Washburn crafters of that late 1800's period. In any case, the sound and the feel is just amazing. She’s fun, comfortable, and easy to play-in tip top shape for being over a century old. Comes in newer hardshell case. Parlors of this vintage are not easy to come by and this one would make you proud to own and to play! In our humble opinion, she would be a wonderful pull out and play guitar for a songwriter. She can inspire any writer. Though not pristine, she's a wonderful example of the early parlor period and would be a great add to any collection.
Vintage Guitars and Gear
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We make every effort to provide you honest information about the instrument you purchase. However, every flaw, scratch or ding may not be photographed or noticed on every instrument. By the nature of what we are collecting and selling, virtually all vintage instruments will have dings, scratches, and various other imperfections that come with age and use. We call it character. That's why we love them. Please carefully look at photographs and contact us if you require additional information. Please note that every instrument has been inspected and set up by our luthier for playability and appearance. But, your instrument may still require additional set up by you to make it exactly what is most comfortable and acceptable to you. In the unlikely event that your instrument arrives in a condition with damage or other issues not previously anticipated, please contact us immediately and we will assist. Should a return be required due to damage incurred in route, we must be notified within 48 hours. Please note that all other returns are at the recipients expense. Contact us to authorize and assist you in either case so that we can minimize cost and ensure the safe return of the instrument. All returns must arrive in the same condition in which they left our store and be insured for the full value of the instrument.