< The "Rhinestone Cowboy" Contrabass Balalaika

	Here is the Rhinestone Cowboy. It is a contrabass balalaika that was built in the Chicago area in the 1920's, and played for years at a Chicago Russian restaurant.
Its owner had famous visitors to the restaurant "autograph" the face of the instrument. He then etched them in and sealed the surface. Here is a closeup of the signatures on the face. The lowest one on the left (going off-frame), says "Na pamyat' ot Igorya Stravinskogo" ("In remembrance, from Igor Stravinsky").
	That's Elliot Borgman playing it. In spite of all the rhinestones, the signatures, and a big knot on the face, the instrument has a wonderful bass sound - it is an excellent performing instrument. A real collector's item with great sound. AND IT'S FOR SALE! Contact Steve Wolownik at 856-561-6231 or at wolownik@looksmart.com

12/6/99