This is an exquisite shamisen, featuring a stunning tiger-striped grain and a perfectly carved, "簾トチ" (reed-like) design. Upon viewing, the flowing grain evokes the image of the spring thaw after a long winter in Aomori, like a gentle stream. The more you look, the more beautiful and profound it becomes, allowing you to lose yourself in its depths. It is truly a masterpiece with a rich, unique character. Think about the teachers, their students, shamisen shops, and your own surroundings. You likely won't come across a shamisen like this very often. Please, feel free to view other sellers' shamisen as well. After doing so, please revisit our offering. The difference is immediately apparent. Furthermore, the body has been meticulously carved with "子持綾杉彫" (child-bearing ayasugi carving), and the wood's annual rings are exceptionally well-defined, making it a top-quality piece. *This sale includes only the neck and body. Please prepare the other components, such as tuning pegs, skin, and accessories like the body covering, to your liking.* Total Length: Approximately 102 cm Neck: Upper and lower two grooves (exquisite gold-detailed neck) Face Width: Approximately 3.0 - 3.2 cm Thickness: Approximately 3.3 cm Depth: Approximately 3.5 cm (equivalent to new) Body: Exquisite "子持綾杉胴" (child-bearing ayasugi body) - Five-minute size (very fine annual rings) Having been well-maintained, this used shamisen doesn't feel old. Both the neck and body have a lustrous sheen, and the metal fittings are also gleaming. While there may be some minor scratches and wear, there are no noticeable damages, and I believe the condition is excellent, a near-mint beauty. Unlike shamisen for practice or everyday use, this is an exceptional piece, and therefore, it hasn't been used frequently or heavily. The depth is equivalent to a new one, and you can enjoy it as a lifelong instrument. The neck surface appears to be in excellent condition without any warping. However, as individual perceptions may vary, please confirm the condition through the images provided. (I have intentionally photographed it without strings to make the neck surface condition easier to see.) *In addition, I believe there are no major defects in its current state. However, this item is ultimately a used product.* I have made every effort to represent it through numerous images and descriptions, but it is impossible to fully convey its appeal and condition through the images and text alone. Therefore, there is a possibility of overlooking subtle scratches, chips, or hairline cracks, and there may be areas that are of concern or not depending on individual preferences. Please purchase only if you understand and accept that you may need to perform maintenance or adjustments yourself.