On loan to The Met The Met accepts temporary loans of art both for short-term exhibitions and for long-term display in its galleries.
D-18 (serial no. 80221)
C. F. Martin & Co.
Elvis Presley American
Not on view
Elvis Presley was primarily a vocalist, but his instruments were an important part of his iconography in promotional photos and posters, and he also frequently played guitars like this Martin D-18. Early in his career, he sang with the lead guitarist Scotty Moore, whose creative solos influenced many subsequent players. In the legendary 1955 Sun Studios sessions, Elvis used this D-18 as a rhythm guitar, his aggressive strumming providing a strong accompaniment to Moore on electric guitar and Bill Black on bass.
Technical Description:
Flat spruce top with round sound hole; mahogany back, sides, and neck, rosewood fingerboard; 25½ in. scale; natural finish with white and black binding; set neck with abalone dot inlays; headstock with rosewood veneer and gold C.F. Martin & Co. logo decal; nickel-chrome tuners, rosewood bridge, celluloid tortoiseshell pickguard; metallic “ELVIS” stickers attached to body (missing “S”)
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.