This is an all original mandola (tuned C G D A used in mandolin orchestras to play the "viola" voice). The top is opaque black finish with good arching. The back and sides are red stained birch. The neck is fitted with original Handel style tuners which hold the tuning quite well. A small section of the back has been filled and reglued but is structurally sound. The neck is straight and true and the frets show little wear. The original pickguard is present but has some decay and has been retired to the case. The original single piece bridge was replaced at some point with a 1920s patented adjustable bridge. This is a fine playing mandola with its original hard case.