NMM 10156.  Tenor banjo by Ludwig & Ludwig, Chicago, ca. 1927-1929.
Board of Trustees, 2002.

Top-of-the-line instrument with Ludwig's patented Planet tuners with a four-to-one gear ratio and top tension hooks that players can adjust without removing the resonator. The ultimate in fancy decoration, with highly engraved, gold-plated hardware, American Indian motifs of inlaid pearl and wood marquetry, ivoroid-bound neck with checkerboard trim and center strips down the back, and carved peace pipes at the heel of the neck. Sold new for $450.

In a photo taken in Banff, Alberta, July 27, 1927, Big Chief Calf Child of the Stony Indians admires an identical Big Chief banjo.

Decoration on Peghead, Fretboard, and Sides

(Click on any image below to view larger image)

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