S. S. Stewart “Universal Favorite” No. 4 5-string banjo, S/N 11973, circa 1893.
An original instrument from the collection of Akira Tsumura and featured on page 186 of his book, 1001 Banjos. This is a grade 4 banjo (or higher) with engraving on the outside of the rim and fine marquetry lining the interior. The cherry neck, with ebony fingerboard and 27 inch scale is beautifully appointed with exquisite acanthus leaf heel carving and mother of pearl ornamentation throughout the peghead and fingerboard. On the old skin head that originally came on the banjo is penciled: James Drake, 1896 and then Douglas Harrington, 1922, Corning NY.
