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Rory Gallagher: An Oahu Lap Steel Guitar, circa 1940s, guitar 35in (89cm) long image 1
Rory Gallagher: An Oahu Lap Steel Guitar, circa 1940s, guitar 35in (89cm) long image 2
Rory Gallagher: An Oahu Lap Steel Guitar, circa 1940s, guitar 35in (89cm) long image 3
Lot 1Y

Rory Gallagher: An Oahu Lap Steel Guitar, circa 1940s,
guitar 35in (89cm) long

17 October 2024, 15:00 BST
London, New Bond Street

Sold for £12,800 inc. premium

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Rory Gallagher: An Oahu Lap Steel Guitar,

Dark brown sunburst finish with highly decorative gold-coloured floral motifs, two American Stackpole control knobs, wooden pickup cover, back with non-slip panel attached, Brazilian rosewood fingerboard, dot markers, headstock with Oahu Publishing Co. Cleveland, O. decal and three-a-side black lacquered wooden tuners, in Geib plush-lined, hardshell case with transit stickers,
CITES 24GBA103HF9VR,

Footnotes

Rory was photographed with this Oahu lap steel at Musicland Studios, Munich in 1976, during sessions for Rory's eighth solo album, Calling Card. Before this album, all of Rory's previous releases were self-produced. For Calling Card he was keen to find a producer who had an affinity with traditional rock values but was open to new ideas. Through touring with Deep Purple, Rory had formed a relationship with Roger Glover, bassist of Deep Purple and Rainbow, who agreed to co-produce the album.

With thanks to Dan Kopilovic of Ground Guitar for his assistance in the research of this Lot and many of the other guitars in the collection.

Oahu:
Oahu lap steel guitars were popularised during the early to mid-20th century. They are deeply connected to Hawaiian music and the broader development of American popular music. Oahu lap steels are typically played horizontally on the lap with a slide, creating the distinctive, smooth gliding sound that characterises Hawaiian music. Their influence extended beyond the islands, impacting the country, blues, and early rock and roll genres. The guitars are often prized for their rich, resonant tones and vintage appeal, making them sought-after collectables among musicians and enthusiasts today.

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