Perhaps I am a fool, but I often wonder about "faithful reproductions" when
it comes to cosmetics. To me a faithful reproduction would be using a wood
and a shape that would duplicate the experience of the old time player -
instruments are made to be played, not to be visual replications. The beauty
of the instrument is, of course, a part of its attraction - the workmanship
of the old craftsmen is something we all desire to attain (and can, if we
take the time). But the instrument itself is the goal, to use Shakespeare in
another sense "the play is the thing". The old masters of luthiery used the
materials that were available to them, who knows what they might have used
in a different time. Sometimes an instrument was made for "presentation" to
a noble, an instrument of supreme craftsmanship that might not have sounded
worth a damn - but as long as the noble put it on display it didn't matter.
I don't suggest not trying to make the reproduction, only that you should
consider the purpose - is it for display or play. I think a lot of the "old
boys" would have appreciated a band saw, or other modern conveniences. I am
making a clearsach (the old carved Celtic harp which is like a "dugout
canoe" in that the soundboard is integral to the body - the back is the
addendum). I confess that I'm using Forstner bits to drill out some of the
waste, although all the final work will be with hand chisels. I can't use
the woods they used, I have no access to a log that has spent 200 years in a
peat bog.
Best, Jon
----- Original Message -----
From: "Solaris Solarium" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2007 11:21 PM
Subject: [LUTE-BUILDER] Re: toirtoiseshell fingerboards
I am trying to make a faithful reproduction of my 18th c. english guittar,
and want to remain true to the redish hue of the toitoiseshell fingerboard
but am unwilling to slay a tortoise, obviously. Any ideas on a non-plastic
alternative to fake this?
christopher davies, portland oregon
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