Knutsen Harp Guitar
This is one of only two "patent-style"
guitars with binding on the body.
As this 9-string version never appeared on a patent, did it precede the
11-string, or was it a variation?
Both versions are mentioned (and this style is pictured) in Knutsen's ads from
1898 (HGP12).
I first thought that the bridge must have been someone's fanciful
replacement - but a nearly identical original bridge was recently discovered (HGP13).
Additional photos and information can be found in From Harp
Guitars to the New Hawaiian Family by Noe & Most.
(left image copyright Tom Noe, right copyright Kerry Char)
Knutsen Archives Inventory Number |
HGP7 |
|
Category |
Port Townsend Harp Guitars |
|
Body Style |
"1898 patent" |
|
Current or last known owner |
Dan Most Estate |
|
Year (approx) |
1897-1898 |
|
Label |
"Patent applied for" in pencil |
|
Label Code | PT4? | |
Courses / Strings |
9 course: 6 strings on neck, 3 bass |
|
Frets |
straight |
|
Scale length | 25-1/2" | |
Neck Joint | small heel, glued flush with body | |
Woods |
Top |
Western Red cedar |
Back & Sides |
walnut |
|
Neck |
walnut |
|
Fingerboard |
ebony |
|
Bridge |
rosewood |
|
Headstock veneer | none | |
Binding, trim |
Top |
herringbone |
Back |
unknown |
|
Fingerboard |
none |
|
Headstock(s) |
none |
|
Soundhole | 3 rings (2 herringbone), ivoroid binding | |
Inlay |
fancy pearl fret markers |
|
Pickguard |
none |
|
Comments |
Horizontal back brace. (Noe/Most, p.22) |
[Biographical]
[Instruments]
[Historical
Photos]
[Credits]
[FAQ]
[Bibliography]
[Updates]
[Links]
[Contact]
[Home
(Knutsen Archives)] [Home
(Harpguitars.net)]
All Site Contents Copyright © Gregg Miner, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,2006. All Rights Reserved.
Copyright and Fair Use of material and use of images: See Copyright and Fair Use policy.