WS13-5

David Jacobs                  Un-designated Model (Fretless)          5 String

 

S/N: None                   1860s                           13 x18 3/4"(Nut to Rim)                                   4 lb.

        

 

Originality: Missing tuners, tailpiece, and some hooks and nuts.

 

Condition: Very good.

 

Background: New Yorker, David Jacobs ( Father was Angel Jacobs; brothers John and Lionel) was credited in 1887 by S. S. Stewart as being one of the earliest makers. Thought to have made banjos from about 1850-1885. On an 1856 listing, the name "Jacobs" appeared as a NY instrument maker.

One of the very first methods for decorating banjos was using wood marquetry. As is almost certainly the case with this instrument, the marquetry had probably been made for use on furniture and was adapted as well as possible to fit on the banjo.
 

About this instrument:

1) Signed on the dowel stick.

2) Neck is bird’s eye maple.

3) Burl walnut veneer on the outside of the rim.

 

Click to enlarge: