Hi Folks,
As some of you know I'm a big admirer of Johann (Hans) Brentrup's mandolins, and I know I'm just one of many happy owners of his instruments. With Hans' kind permission I'm launching a Brentrup Mandolin Registry.
Inspired by the Mandolin Archive, which catalogs all the great Gibsons, Nuggets, Gilchrists, Dudenbostle, and Weins mandolins, the site is intended to document the artistry, beauty, inspired designs, historical replicas, and all of the little details that mandolin geeks love to pour over when they are ordering a mandolin.
Each entry is based on the serial number system that Hans used to identify his instruments:
There's a lot of good information in this label. It's an F5, signed on June 2009, and is the 218th instrument Hans built, and features a red spruce top. I'm particularly looking for the serial numbers, and would especially like to get photos of the inside labels whenever possible.
If you are a Brentrup owner, former owner, store owner, or anyone else with access to the serial number of a Brentrup, and with luck photos of the front, back, neck, etc and/or any specs please contact me either through PM, send an email, or leave a note at the registry and we can connect and get your mandolin listed. It's quick and easy.
Unlike Dan I don't have to track down thousands of instruments. Please join me in scouring the Earth for expired eBay listings, old Elderly listings, pictures on your hard drive, emails from Hans documenting the build process and agonizing wait, etc. I have access to all of Hans' posts here on the cafe, but if you own an instrument described here but have the serial number to add I would appreciate it.
Trivia is also appreciated, such as Hans' instructions on letting the finish cure, magazine or news clippings, etc.
Future ideas:
- Add a page for Build Pictures
- Add a page for unidentified mandolins (pictures but no serial numbers)
- Show the development of James Tailpieces, which originated on Hans' instruments and developed over time
- Create a Brentrup Social Group here on the Cafe
- Add Videos and Sound Clips
- Move the website from the free blog host to my own domain
- Add a category for instruments that are for sale (not many are)
Thank you for your help.
Please note: The Registry is not generating income for anyone. NFI involved. No personal information from any owner is added to the site, and is not required to document an instrument.
Larry
Bookmarks