This image showcases a beautifully crafted custom electric guitar body made from natural wood, likely ash or similar with a distinctive grain pattern. The surface has been meticulously sanded and coated with a high-gloss lacquer that enhances the wood’s natural color and texture.
What makes this guitar body truly stand out is the intricate dark-colored tribal or flame-style carving on the right side. This decorative motif appears to be hand-carved or CNC-machined, then filled or coated with a dark resin or lacquer to create contrast against the lighter wood. The design resembles stylized wings or flames and adds a unique, artistic flair to the instrument.
The body is still in the finishing stage, as indicated by the visible pickup and control cavity routes and the absence of hardware or electronics. It’s hanging from a hook, possibly in a spray booth or drying room, suggesting it’s undergoing the final stages of painting or clear-coating.
Key Features:
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Natural wood body with clear gloss finish
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Hand-carved or CNC-engraved tribal artwork
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Dark resin or lacquer infill for visual contrast
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Custom design tailored for aesthetic appeal and uniqueness
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Flamed Maple Top with Transparent Finish:
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The guitar has a flamed maple top, which is a high-end wood often used for its striking grain pattern.
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A transparent purple burst finish has been applied, which enhances the flame effect and gives a premium look. The color transitions from bright purple in the center to black at the edges (a style called a “burst”).
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High-Gloss Clear Coat:
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A clear gloss coat has been applied over the stain, giving the surface a reflective, shiny appearance. This not only looks beautiful but also protects the wood.
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Routing for Pickups and Neck Pocket:
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The pickup cavity (for placing the humbuckers or single coils) and the neck pocket (where the neck attaches to the body) have been routed precisely.
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The routing shows clean edges, suggesting the use of CNC or skilled handwork.
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Markings for Alignment and Fit:
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You can see blue ink markings and numbers inside the neck pocket. These are fitment or production notes, often made by luthiers to ensure the neck fits perfectly and aligns correctly with the bridge.
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Screw Holes and Inserts for Bridge and Electronics:
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There are metal inserts or screw holes visible where the bridge and electronics (like the volume/tone knobs or pickup selector) will go. These are prepped for final hardware installation.
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Exotic Hardwood Body with High Gloss Finish:
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The body appears to be made from a rich, exotic hardwood—possibly rosewood or cocobolo—recognized by its deep reddish-brown tones and beautiful grain.
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A high-gloss polyurethane or polyester clear coat has been applied, enhancing the wood’s natural beauty and giving it a mirror-like finish.
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Detailed Carving and Inlay Work:
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The lower section of the body features an intricate hand-carved design, incorporating elements that resemble a dragon’s tail or horn, with floral or organic patterns.
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Parts of the carving have been filled or coated with a black and possibly colored resin to create contrast and depth, giving it a dramatic, 3D effect.
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Pickup and Neck Routing:
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The cavities for dual humbucker pickups have been cleanly routed, and the neck pocket is labeled with a handwritten “2”, likely for workshop identification or matching with the neck.
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Attention to detail in the cavity routing ensures proper fitment of electronics and components later in the build process.
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Artistic and Functional Fusion:
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This build merges functional luthiery with sculptural art. The carved portion not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also reflects the luthier’s craftsmanship and creative vision.
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