Knutsen Harp Hawaiian Convertible Guitar
I didn't pay too much attention to this instrument when I
first saw it in Robert Hartman's first book, "Guitars and Mandolins in
America" published in 1984 (pictured at right). But I am now - it's only one of two known so
far of this unusual style. They have only two basses,
And in November, 2003, the instrument finally re-surfaced!
It's very attractive, with full rope binding. Note the fancy screws attaching
the bridges to the face.
The owner mentions (and pictures) a paper sticker marking the 4th fret. This is
remaining from the Hartman period, when the instrument is pictured with a few
more of these extra paper "markers!"
This "convertible" has inlaid frets, so could only be played lap
style. The brackets are only for neck adjustment.
Click on a picture to
enlarge
(images
copyright Thomas Delago, except for right image
copyright and courtesy of Ron Middlebrook/Centerstream Publishing and
Robert C. Hartman)
Knutsen Archives Inventory Number |
HCN1 |
|
Category |
Convertible Guitars |
|
Body Style |
"'No Point' Harp Hawaiian" |
|
Current or last known owner |
Thomas Delago |
|
Year (approx) |
1920-1927 or 1928. Possibly earlier (back to 1914?) |
|
Label |
"C. KNUTSEN, Manufacturer of ALL KINDS OF STRINGED INSTRUMENTS, 1542 TEMPLE ST." |
|
Label Code | LA9 | |
Courses / Strings |
12 course: 6 strings on neck, 2 bass, 4 treble |
|
Frets |
inlaid wood |
|
Scale length | 24-3/4" | |
Neck Joint | "convertible" brackets | |
Woods |
Top |
spruce |
Back & Sides |
koa or gum |
|
Neck |
unknown |
|
Fingerboard |
unknown |
|
Bridge |
unknown |
|
Headstock veneer |
none |
|
Binding, trim |
Top |
rope |
Back |
rope |
|
Fingerboard |
two rope stripes away from edge |
|
Headstock(s) |
none |
|
Soundhole |
rope |
|
Inlay |
bone or ivory |
|
Pickguard |
none |
|
Dimensions | Upper Bout | 11-1/4" |
Lower Bout | 15" | |
Body at endpin | 3-1/2" | |
Comments |
Paper sticker fret markers at 4 and 8. Diagonal back braces. Instrument pictured in "The Larsons' Creations", p.92 |
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