WS15-26
Fairbanks Prototype Columbian 5
String
S/N: 1792 1891 11 ˝ x27" 4 3/8 lb.
Fully original.
Condition: Near mint.
Background: One of the great events of
the years leading up to the dawn of the 20th Century was the 1892/3 World
Columbian Exposition in Chicago. We know that Fairbanks introduced his Columbian
model for that occasion. This banjo was made about 400 serial numbers before my
standard Columbian. The inlays are like none he used on any other models and
make it obvious that it is a Columbian model. Jim Bollman prefers to consider it
a custom Columbian, i. e. made to request. I always hesitate to disagree with
him but believe this was a prototype made in consideration of the upcoming
Exposition and conceivably even made to exhibit there. The carved heel, inlays
behind the peghead and on the heel, upgraded peghead and board inlays, and fancy
carved ivory tailpiece are all features that did not appear on the standard
Columbian.
About this instrument:
1) Ex-Bollman Collection and as such it was pictured in his section of the first
Tsumura book ( page 112, 3 rd banjo on the top row).
2) Peghead and board inlays more elaborately engraved than on a standard model.
3) Ebony peghead overlay, back strap, and heel cap.
4) Back of the peghead is inlaid with a 3-piece Art Nouveau design.
5) Engraved star in the heel cap.
6) Heel carving like an Electric No. 2 model.
7) Fancy ivory tailpiece.
8) Inlaid celluloid Maltese Cross tuners.
9) Dowel stick is stamped with both “Fairbanks” and “ Fairbanks & Cole”
imprints.
10) Whether a custom or prototype instrument, it is almost surely unique.
Click to enlarge:
