Rare Viola da Terra, a 12 stringed folk instrument which hails from Portugal, specifically the Azores islands. This example features a small 11.5" lower bout, and 9" upper bout; back/sides are constructed of cypress, while the top is spruce. Very beautiful original ebony bridge with fancy "wings" which extend from either side. Intricate wooden herringbone top binding, two small heart shaped sound holes also bound, inlaid ebony design beneath bridge. Mahogany neck with ebony fretboard (fretboard becomes flush with top at 12th fret), original frets, large peghead with maple overlay, 12 friction pegs--all match except for one. Past side crack repair evident on bass side.