Produced between 1977 and 1982 as a limited edition model, the Gibson Les Paul Artisan stood as the second most expensive Les Paul in Gibson's lineup. It was designed to be a more decorative and higher-spec version of the Les Paul Custom. This particular 1978 Gibson Les Paul Artisan is a stellar example, showcasing the more sought-after three-pickup configuration. The guitar boasts a hand-carved Maple top finished in Sunburst, paired with a Mahogany body and neck, and an Ebony fingerboard.
The Artisan model was known for its luxurious appointments, including heart and floral pearl fingerboard inlays, multi-ply neck and body binding, and a floral headstock inlay, along with a pre-war style script Gibson logo. The gold hardware, including tuners and other components, mirrors that of the Les Paul Customs from the same era. The body is equipped with three patent-stamped pickups and an adjustable TP-6 tailpiece.
This guitar remains in excellent condition, displaying only minor signs of play wear and ageing on the finish. There is some light cracking in the binding, also some minor buckle rash on the back. The gold hardware displays nice tarnishing giving off a vintage vibe. All the electronics and hardware are original and work perfectly. The guitar also comes with its original case, making it a comprehensive package.
Features:
Action at 1st Fret: 0.5mm
Action at 12th Fret: 1.5mm
Neck Depth at 1st Fret: 19.88mm
Neck Depth at 12th Fret: 24.53mm
Nut Width: 42.84mm
Width at 12th Fret: 52.45mm
Weight: 4.7kg / 10.36lb
Solid mahogany body
3-piece, flamed maple neck
Multi-bound headstock with extensive MOP Inlays
3-piece figured maple top in Sunburst finish
Ebony fretboard with extensive MOP inlays
22 medium-jumbo frets
3 x original Gibson humbucker pickups
3-way switch
2 x Volume, 2 x Tone controls
Gold-plated hardware
TP-6 fine tuning bridge
6 x original Gibson tuners
Original black Gibson HSC
