Inspired by the delicate beauty and vibrant diversity of butterflies, the Masterbuilt “Butterfly Guitar” is an exceptional instrument that embodies artistry and sonic excellence. This bass guitar, based on our distinguished Imperial shape, serves as a canvas for a breathtaking display of nature-inspired art.
The defining feature of the “Butterfly Guitar” is its intricate inlay. Over two hundred meticulously selected pieces of natural materials, including Gold Pearl, Mother of Pearl, Black Pearl, and various colored stones, are handcrafted to create a stunning butterfly motif. This detailed inlay showcases a cascade of butterfly species, such as the monarch, imperial, and emperor, gracefully flowing from the headstock down to the ramp of the guitar. This visual spectacle transforms the instrument into a playable work of art.
Beyond its visual allure, the “Butterfly Guitar” boasts premium materials chosen for their tonal properties and aesthetic appeal. A striking Flame Koa topwood and back veneer provide a visually rich and tonally resonant foundation. The 5-piece Ash neck, reinforced with Wenge stringers, offers stability and sustain, topped with a beautifully grained Brazilian Rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability and warmth. The body is constructed with African Mahogany wings and an Alder tone-block, a combination selected to deliver a full, deep low-end and a rich, articulate midrange.
Attention to detail extends to every aspect of this instrument. Matching Koa pickup covers and a backplate create a sleek, seamless aesthetic, enhancing the overall visual harmony. Electronically, the “Butterfly Guitar” is equipped with Fodera / Duncan Dual Coil pickups in the 70s position, paired with our Fodera Custom 3-band preamp. This combination provides a wide range of tonal flexibility, allowing the inherent voice of the exquisite tonewoods to shine through, making it a truly versatile and expressive instrument for discerning musicians.
Close-up of the butterfly inlay on the headstock and neck of the Butterfly Guitar, showcasing intricate details.
Full view of the Butterfly Guitar from the rear, highlighting the Flame Koa back veneer and body contours.
Angled shot of the Butterfly Guitar displaying the full body, neck, and butterfly inlay from a player's perspective.
Detail of the Butterfly Guitar's body, emphasizing the Flame Koa topwood and the beginning of the butterfly inlay cascade.
Macro shot of the butterfly inlay on the fretboard of the Butterfly Guitar, showing the variety of pearl and stone materials.
Side view of the Butterfly Guitar showcasing the body depth, neck profile, and the continuous flow of the butterfly inlay design.
Specifications
Body Woods
- Imperial Body Shape
- Mahogany Body
- Alder Tone Block
- Flame Koa Topwood (Solid)
Neck Woods
- Brazilian Rosewood Fingerboard
- 5-pc. Ash Neck w/ Wenge Stringers
- Butterfly Inlays
Construction Specs
- Birth Date: May 2018
- Neck-through Construction
- 34″ Scale Length
- 5 String Configuration (19.0mm spacing)
- 24 Frets (large frets)
Electronics Options
- Fodera Custom Preamp
- Fodera / Duncan Dual Coil Pickups
- Imperial Control Layout