Antique New York Scrolled Mandolin, by John DeJulio c. 1915
Antique New York Scrolled Mandolin, by John DeJulio c. 1915
SIZE
Lower bout is 10 1/4 inches; scale is 14 inches; nut width is 1 1/4 inch
DESCRIPTION
Most likely a custom-order one of a kind. Beautiful and highly embellished instrument with abundant engraved pearlwork; Bz-rosewood body; tiger maple neck; engraved gold tuners and tailpiece.
The broken arch headstock and other features are reminiscent of John D'Angelico who resided three blocks from DeJulio (149 Grand St) in Little Italy, Lower Manhattan. In reality the influence is more likely the other way around as this instrument was made well before D'Angelico began producing his archtop models in the 1930s. The more probable influence was D'Angelico's mentor Raphael Ciani who made flat-top models also with broken arch headstocks (some attributed to a young D'Angelico).
While this mandolin is among the few known DeJulio labeled instruments his reputation and association with the Little Italy school of luthery is well documented. He is reputed to have learned mandolin building via Antonio Carlucci who was a primary at Oscar Schmidt. He also worked for Luigi Ricci as the mandolin foreman in the Ricci shop from which there are documented bowl-back instruments having similar Naples-style pearl rosettes. DeJulio was later hired to run the mandolin shop for C.G. Conn. I assume this instrument was made prior to his relocating to Elkhart. But I'm not really certain regarding any of DeJulio's professional time-line. Additional research is recommended. An excellent reference on the New York/Italian luthier school: Guitar Heroes: Legendary Craftsmen from Italy to New York by Met Museum curator Jayson Dobney.
Mugwumps lists DeJulio as active 1900-1908. But I suspect he worked in Little Italy at least through the teens. Best estimate of age of this instrument might be based on hardware as well as construction. Perhaps1910-20 (give or take 5 years either way). Just a guess.
Beautiful sweet chirpy tone; the neck is dead straight; it plays and intonates well. All parts are original. Interesting old lozenge case from the Period.
CONDITION
Original label is a bit tattered but legible. Two tight repaired back cracks. Repaired top center seam. Both repairs sturdy and stable. Case handle MIA. Aside from this condition is very good and secure. Please examine photos carefully.
Please call me for detailed discussion-- concise in-hand condition report-- over the phone demo!