|
|
|
|
|
Rare and distinctive. A true classic, collectable model in the vintage Gibson guitar lineup. The Barney Kessel Artist model was introduced in 1961, with a 25 1/2" scale length. These models are very distinctive, with their double-Florentine cutaway shape - a shape that has been described as 'ES-335 meets SG'! A 17-inch body width gives the guitar plenty of stage presence, while the 3-inch depth makes it very comfortable. Aaron Thibeaux "T-Bone" Walker actually used one of these occasionally in the '60s and 70s before he died in 1975. This is an early version with the spruce top and a maple body (by 1965 Gibson had switched to all-maple body). While the serial number 69084 (visible on the orange label - the headstock has no numbers at all) would indicate a 1964 build, the fact that this guitar has the neck-to-body join at the 14th, rather than the 17th, fret shows it to have been built before the end of 1963. There were only 154 Barney Kessel Regular models made in 1963. The body is totally original except for the fact that the original pre-set compensated rosewood bridge saddle has been replaced by the much more servicable (and adjustable!) Tune-O-Matic saddle. The original Cherry Sunburst finish is beautifully slightly faded and checked on the face, less so on the sides and back. Pickguard is original, as is the very cool trapeze tailpiece with the raised diamond and the rosewood shield with the "Barney Kessel" nameplate. This vintage Gibson is extremely collectable. The one-piece mahogany neck has been refinished at some stage, but the original vintage Kluson Deluxe tuners remain. Frets are original, although have been dressed a few times. Action is incredibly slick - this must be one of the best necks I have played in years. This beautiful vintage Gibson comes in a high-quality Canadian-made hard shell case (see last photo in the 'more pictures' link below). $ not recently valued for the present market but feel free to make a serious offer.
|
