This has to be one of the most beautifully-made ukes we’ve seen and also one of the most interesting.A soprano uke of Hawaiian Koa Wood, with rope-binding, kind of in the style of Nunes and Kumalae. ca. 1925Label inside reads:Ka’ai Ukulele Mf’g Co.Honolulu, T.H. [Territory of Hawaii]Ernest Ka’ai was a famous Uke Player, teacher and entrepreneur. Started his own uke factory,but it is believed that he may not have actually made ukes, but contracted other makers to supply him withukuleles. It was typical in the early part of the 20th century for U.S. mainland stores to contract with Hawaiian makers tosupply them with instruments… here Ka’ai ordered some instruments from mainland makers, in this case from theLarson Bros. of Chicago. Not only are there quality and design features that point to Larson manufacture, but also the name‘Larson’ is written on the label [along with some other initials and markings that may be from previous owners].Robert Hartmann’s definitive book on Larson shows this actual instrument and agrees that this uke is a Larson product.This instrument will need a few repairs… there are a couple of un-mended cracks, top and back, and a puncture wound on the back…a small chip out of the sound-hole.All-Original, never messed with. A rare and important piece. In a ’50’s Martin chipboard case.Offered AS-IS and on a No-Returns basis.Please check out the other ukes we are offering on this week.