The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #116505   Message #2502998
Posted By: Newport Boy
27-Nov-08 - 01:10 PM
Thread Name: Bowl Back Mandolin: Carlo Cristini, Napoli
Subject: RE: Bowl Back Mandolin: Carlo Cristini, Napoli
I'm no expert, but that's pretty much a generic description of a Neapolitan mandolin. Mine is by Francesco Scarpa, and it's dated 1899 - also numbered 5014.

Sadly, it's no longer playable, having been sat on at a party.

I've no idea of the value of these instruments - I paid £2 10s for mine, but that's a while ago. Treat it with care - they're beautiful instruments and extremely difficult to repair if damaged.

Phil