1890s AC Fairbanks Model 120 bowlback mandolin

This old 1890s bowlback mandolin was made in Boston by AC Fairbanks and seems to maybe be a shared Vega-built instrument as it’s very close in spec to same-decade Vegas.

It’s got a ton of Brazilian rosewood ribs and plenty of pearl and marquetry-style bling at the headstock and along the top edges.

I gave it a fret level/dress, reglued two braces, adjusted the bridge, and set it all up.

It sounds crisp and loud with oodles of sustain and a bit of a velvet burr in the highs. It’s a quality piece.