Michele Maratea Neapolitan Mandolin Tortoiseshell inlay 1890s + case project

Michele Maratea Neapolitan mandolin dating from the late 1800s. The tortoiseshell is exquisite as well as the rosette and purfling. The bowl is stunning too, so once restored it would be a lovely example.

Michele Maratea label inside bowl – Michele Maratea, Grande Fabbrica e Deposito, E Figli, Allievo Vinaccia, Systema DeMeglio Fabbricante Distrumenti Armonio, Napoli (Italia), Vicoletto Rosario a Porlamedina 18.

This Neapolitan Mandolin has been restored to some extent but the top was covered in thick varnish which has now been removed. It would require a new bridge and strings, so would suit an intermediate level of skill. The case has been refurbished with a new top being fashioned and new catches. It could be improved but does the job and leaves the focus on the mandolin itself.

This would be a great addition to any Neapolitan Mandolin or instrument collection for restoration, display or ornament.

Please check photos for detail and ask if not sure.

Technical details

• Top: Spruce
• Back: 21 rosewood ribs
• Neck: Rosewood veneer
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Width at nut: 28.5mm
• Radius: Flat
• Frets: 17 frets
• End to end: 66cm
• Scale length: 330mm
• Profile: Neapolitan
• Country of manufacture: Italy
• Year: Late 1800s
• Finish: Natural
• Decorations: White mother-of-pearl fingerboard dots and crosses / Rosette encrusted with white mother-of-pearl patterns / Mother-of-pearl/ebony purfling on the edge of the table
• All strings missing.

This mandolin would need a new bridge and strings to make it playable again. Cosmetically the wood will come up nicely with your chosen finish.

Alternatively it can be used for display, prop or ornamental purposes as is.