Dismal Ax Rusticator

In Maine, the term rusticator refers to those folks who came from the big cities in the summertime during the late 19th and early 20th centuries to enjoy a bucolic lifestyle, but without abandoning the creature comforts they were accustomed to. This series, then, represents the upper crust of Dismal Ax and is where the rustic motif gets blended with other themes and styles. Art nouveau is a particular favorite and meshes well here, being similarly inspired by forms of the natural world. Art deco can also be woven in even though it came into fashion at the end of the rusticator era. Other modes, such as Victorian, gothic and Americana, are equally welcome. “It's a mash-up of fancy and grungy~ a kind of ‘gopher baroque,’ if you will,” says George.

All Rusticator models have scarf jointed or laminated necks, with angled headstocks, attached to the body with a full width mortise and tenon joint. Bodies are solid or chambered with salvaged wood tops. These are the most highly customized models in the Dismal Ax lineup and generally only built on commission. A wide range of hardware and finishes are available.

Rusticator SC and DC models are typically 25” scale with 24 frets and two humbucking pickups.

Rusticator Basses will be available in custom scale lengths and string configurations, including 8-string. No examples exist as yet.

Rusticator Deluxe models (Expected availability: Fall, 2011) will be full custom builds featuring semi-hollow bodies with bent sides and arched tops, though the example here is a chambered solid body.

Pricing:
Rusticator SC and DC Models Price: starting at $2400